The Suzuki TS400 is an iconic dual-sport motorcycle first produced in 1971. It quickly gained popularity for its ruggedness, reliability, and versatility.
The TS400 was powered by a 397cc two-stroke engine that produced 34 horsepower. It featured a five-speed transmission and a kickstarter. The bike had a sturdy frame and suspension, making it well-suited for both on- and off-road riding.
The TS400 was a popular choice for both recreational riders and commuters. It was also used by law enforcement and military forces around the world. Production of the TS400 ended in 1982, but it remains a popular classic motorcycle today.
Suzuki TS400
The Suzuki TS400 is a classic dual-sport motorcycle that has been praised for its ruggedness, reliability, and versatility. Here are 10 key aspects of the Suzuki TS400:
- Engine: 397cc two-stroke engine producing 34 horsepower
- Transmission: Five-speed transmission
- Starter: Kickstart
- Frame: Sturdy steel frame
- Suspension: Telescopic front forks and swingarm rear suspension
- Brakes: Drum brakes front and rear
- Weight: 308 pounds
- Fuel capacity: 2.5 gallons
- Seat height: 32 inches
- Top speed: 85 mph
These key aspects make the Suzuki TS400 a great choice for both recreational riders and commuters. It is also a popular choice for law enforcement and military forces around the world. The TS400 is a versatile motorcycle that can be used for a variety of purposes, from commuting to off-road riding.
Engine
The engine is a key component of any motorcycle, and the Suzuki TS400 is no exception. The TS400's engine is a 397cc two-stroke engine that produces 34 horsepower. This engine gives the TS400 plenty of power for both on- and off-road riding. It is also relatively fuel-efficient, getting up to 50 mpg.
Two-stroke engines are known for their simplicity and power, but they can also be more polluting than four-stroke engines. However, the TS400's engine is equipped with an oil injection system that helps to reduce emissions. This system injects a small amount of oil into the engine's combustion chamber, which helps to lubricate the engine and reduce friction. This, in turn, helps to reduce emissions.
The TS400's engine is a reliable and powerful performer. It is a key reason why the TS400 is such a popular motorcycle with both recreational riders and commuters.
Transmission
The Suzuki TS400 is equipped with a five-speed transmission, which is a key component of the motorcycle's drivetrain. The transmission allows the rider to change gears, which in turn changes the ratio between the engine and the rear wheel. This allows the rider to adjust the motorcycle's speed and torque to suit the riding conditions.
- Gears 1-3: These gears are used for low-speed riding, such as when starting from a stop or climbing a hill.
- Gears 4-5: These gears are used for high-speed riding, such as when cruising on the highway.
- Neutral: This gear is used when the motorcycle is stopped or idling.
The TS400's five-speed transmission is a versatile and reliable component that allows the rider to get the most out of the motorcycle's engine. It is a key reason why the TS400 is such a popular choice for both recreational riders and commuters.
Starter
The Suzuki TS400 is equipped with a kickstart, which is a lever that the rider uses to start the engine. This is in contrast to many modern motorcycles, which use an electric starter. Kickstarting a motorcycle requires more effort than using an electric starter, but it can be more reliable, especially in wet or cold conditions.
- Simplicity: Kickstarts are relatively simple devices, with few moving parts. This makes them less likely to fail than electric starters, which have more complex components.
- Reliability: Kickstarts are more reliable than electric starters in wet or cold conditions. This is because they do not rely on electricity, which can be affected by moisture or cold temperatures.
- Weight: Kickstarts are lighter than electric starters, which can be an advantage for racing or other performance-oriented applications.
- Cost: Kickstarts are less expensive than electric starters, which can be a consideration for budget-minded riders.
While kickstarts have some advantages over electric starters, they are also more difficult to use. This can be a disadvantage for riders who are not strong enough to kickstart the motorcycle, or for riders who have difficulty with balance.
Frame
The Suzuki TS400 features a sturdy steel frame that is designed to withstand the rigors of both on- and off-road riding. This frame is made from high-tensile steel, which is stronger and lighter than mild steel. This makes the TS400 a very durable motorcycle that can handle even the toughest terrain.
- Strength: The steel frame of the TS400 is very strong and can withstand a lot of abuse. This is important for a dual-sport motorcycle, which is often ridden in rough conditions.
- Durability: The steel frame of the TS400 is also very durable and can last for many years. This is important for a motorcycle that is used for commuting or other everyday purposes.
- Weight: The steel frame of the TS400 is relatively lightweight, which helps to improve the motorcycle's performance. This is important for a dual-sport motorcycle, which needs to be able to accelerate quickly and handle well.
- Versatility: The steel frame of the TS400 is versatile and can be used for a variety of purposes. This is important for a motorcycle that is used for both on- and off-road riding.
The sturdy steel frame of the Suzuki TS400 is a key factor in the motorcycle's popularity. This frame makes the TS400 a durable, reliable, and versatile motorcycle that can handle a variety of riding conditions.
Suspension
The Suzuki TS400 features telescopic front forks and a swingarm rear suspension, which are crucial components for providing a smooth and controlled ride, especially when tackling rough terrain or navigating corners.
The telescopic front forks allow the front wheel to move up and down, absorbing impacts and providing stability. They are designed to provide a balance between comfort and handling, ensuring the rider maintains control even on uneven surfaces.
The swingarm rear suspension, on the other hand, is responsible for absorbing shocks from the rear wheel and maintaining traction. It allows the rear wheel to move up and down independently, providing stability and comfort, especially when carrying a load or riding off-road.
The combination of telescopic front forks and swingarm rear suspension on the Suzuki TS400 enhances the motorcycle's overall performance and versatility, making it suitable for both on-road and off-road adventures.
Brakes
The Suzuki TS400 is equipped with drum brakes front and rear. Drum brakes are a type of brake that uses a pair of brake shoes that press against the inner surface of a rotating drum. This creates friction, which slows down or stops the rotation of the drum and the wheel attached to it.
Drum brakes are less powerful than disc brakes, but they are also less expensive and easier to maintain. They are also more resistant to water and dirt, which makes them a good choice for motorcycles that are used in off-road conditions.
The TS400's drum brakes provide adequate stopping power for most riding conditions. However, riders who plan to do a lot of hard riding or riding in wet or muddy conditions may want to consider upgrading to disc brakes.
Here are some of the advantages and disadvantages of drum brakes:
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Advantages:
- Less expensive than disc brakes
- Easier to maintain
- More resistant to water and dirt
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Disadvantages:
- Less powerful than disc brakes
- Can fade more easily than disc brakes
- Can be more difficult to modulate than disc brakes
Overall, the drum brakes on the Suzuki TS400 are a good choice for most riders. They are affordable, easy to maintain, and provide adequate stopping power for most riding conditions.
Weight
The Suzuki TS400 weighs 308 pounds, which is relatively light for a dual-sport motorcycle. This weight makes the TS400 easy to maneuver and handle, both on- and off-road. It also makes the TS400 a good choice for riders who are new to motorcycling.
The TS400's weight is also a factor in its fuel efficiency. Because the TS400 is lighter than many other dual-sport motorcycles, it gets better gas mileage. This makes the TS400 a good choice for riders who are looking for a fuel-efficient motorcycle.
Overall, the Suzuki TS400's weight of 308 pounds is a key factor in its popularity. This weight makes the TS400 easy to handle, fuel-efficient, and versatile.
Fuel capacity
The Suzuki TS400 has a fuel capacity of 2.5 gallons, which is a relatively small fuel tank for a dual-sport motorcycle. However, the TS400's fuel efficiency helps to offset its small fuel tank. The TS400 gets up to 50 mpg, which means that it can travel up to 125 miles on a single tank of gas.
- Range: The TS400's fuel capacity and fuel efficiency give it a range of up to 125 miles. This is enough range for most riders, but it may be limiting for riders who plan to do a lot of long-distance riding.
- Fuel efficiency: The TS400's fuel efficiency is one of its strong points. The TS400 gets up to 50 mpg, which is excellent for a dual-sport motorcycle.
- Versatility: The TS400's fuel capacity and fuel efficiency make it a versatile motorcycle that can be used for a variety of purposes, including commuting, off-road riding, and long-distance touring.
Overall, the Suzuki TS400's fuel capacity of 2.5 gallons is a good compromise between range and fuel efficiency. The TS400's fuel efficiency helps to offset its small fuel tank, and its versatility makes it a good choice for a variety of riding purposes.
Seat height
The Suzuki TS400 has a seat height of 32 inches, which is a relatively low seat height for a dual-sport motorcycle. This makes the TS400 a good choice for riders who are shorter or who have difficulty reaching the ground on taller motorcycles.
A lower seat height can also be an advantage for riders who are new to motorcycling, as it makes it easier to get on and off the motorcycle. It can also be an advantage for riders who plan to do a lot of off-road riding, as it makes it easier to put their feet down when riding over rough terrain.
However, a lower seat height can also be a disadvantage for taller riders, as it can make it difficult to find a comfortable riding position. Taller riders may also find that the TS400's seat is too narrow and uncomfortable for long rides.
Overall, the Suzuki TS400's seat height of 32 inches is a good compromise between comfort and accessibility. It is a good choice for shorter riders, new riders, and riders who plan to do a lot of off-road riding. However, taller riders may find the TS400's seat to be too low and uncomfortable.
Top speed
The Suzuki TS400 has a top speed of 85 mph, which is relatively slow for a dual-sport motorcycle. However, the TS400 is not designed for high-speed riding. It is designed for off-road riding and commuting, and its top speed is sufficient for these purposes.
- Off-road riding: The TS400's top speed is sufficient for off-road riding. Most off-road trails have a speed limit of 50 mph or less, and the TS400's top speed of 85 mph is more than enough for these trails.
- Commuting: The TS400's top speed is also sufficient for commuting. Most commuters do not travel at speeds higher than 60 mph, and the TS400's top speed of 85 mph is more than enough for commuting purposes.
- Fuel efficiency: The TS400's top speed is also a factor in its fuel efficiency. The TS400 gets up to 50 mpg, which is excellent for a dual-sport motorcycle. The TS400's lower top speed helps to improve its fuel efficiency.
- Versatility: The TS400's top speed of 85 mph makes it a versatile motorcycle that can be used for a variety of purposes, including off-road riding, commuting, and even light touring.
Overall, the Suzuki TS400's top speed of 85 mph is a good compromise between speed and fuel efficiency. The TS400's top speed is sufficient for off-road riding and commuting, and its lower top speed helps to improve its fuel efficiency.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Suzuki TS400
The Suzuki TS400 is a popular dual-sport motorcycle that has been in production since 1971. It is known for its reliability, versatility, and off-road capabilities.
Question 1: What is the top speed of the Suzuki TS400?The top speed of the Suzuki TS400 is 85 mph.
Question 2: What is the fuel capacity of the Suzuki TS400?The fuel capacity of the Suzuki TS400 is 2.5 gallons.
Question 3: What type of brakes does the Suzuki TS400 have?The Suzuki TS400 has drum brakes front and rear.
Question 4: What is the weight of the Suzuki TS400?The weight of the Suzuki TS400 is 308 pounds.
Question 5: What is the seat height of the Suzuki TS400?The seat height of the Suzuki TS400 is 32 inches.
Question 6: What type of engine does the Suzuki TS400 have?The Suzuki TS400 has a 397cc two-stroke engine.
These are just a few of the most frequently asked questions about the Suzuki TS400. For more information, please consult the owner's manual or visit the Suzuki website.
Overall, the Suzuki TS400 is a versatile and reliable motorcycle that is well-suited for a variety of riding conditions. It is a popular choice for both recreational riders and commuters.
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Tips for Getting the Most Out of Your Suzuki TS400
The Suzuki TS400 is a versatile and reliable motorcycle that can be enjoyed by riders of all skill levels. However, there are a few things you can do to get the most out of your TS400.
Tip 1: Keep up with regular maintenance.
Like all motorcycles, the TS400 requires regular maintenance to keep it running smoothly and safely. Be sure to follow the maintenance schedule in your owner's manual.
Tip 2: Use high-quality fuel and oil.
The quality of the fuel and oil you use can have a big impact on the performance of your TS400. Be sure to use high-quality fuel and oil that is specifically designed for motorcycles.
Tip 3: Check your tire pressure regularly.
Proper tire pressure is essential for safety and performance. Check your tire pressure regularly and adjust it to the manufacturer's specifications.
Tip 4: Ride in a smooth and controlled manner.
The TS400 is a powerful motorcycle, but it is important to ride in a smooth and controlled manner. Avoid sudden acceleration and braking, and be aware of your surroundings.
Tip 5: Get training from a qualified instructor.
If you are new to motorcycling, it is a good idea to get training from a qualified instructor. This will help you to learn the basics of riding safely and confidently.
Tip 6: Wear proper safety gear.
Always wear proper safety gear when riding your TS400. This includes a helmet, eye protection, gloves, and protective clothing.
Tip 7: Be aware of your surroundings.
When riding your TS400, be aware of your surroundings and other vehicles. Be prepared to react to unexpected situations.
Tip 8: Have fun!
The Suzuki TS400 is a great motorcycle for riding on- and off-road. Be sure to have fun and enjoy the ride!
By following these tips, you can get the most out of your Suzuki TS400 and enjoy many years of safe and enjoyable riding.
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Conclusion
The Suzuki TS400 is a versatile and reliable dual-sport motorcycle that has been enjoyed by riders of all skill levels for over 50 years. It is known for its off-road capabilities, fuel efficiency, and durability. The TS400 is a good choice for riders who are looking for a motorcycle that can be used for commuting, off-road riding, and even light touring.
If you are considering purchasing a Suzuki TS400, be sure to do your research and find a reputable dealer. With proper maintenance and care, the TS400 can provide many years of enjoyable riding.
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