Although specially created for kids and is a budget bike, the Suzuki DR-Z70 makes no concessions in what concerns appearance, so it inspires on the RM models in order to obtain that distinctive Suzuki look and get noticed at a first glance. As a result, it is packed with one-off features such as number plates, mudguards, aggressive front fender and motocross-style seat. The wheels are spoked in order for the bike to soak up bumps more effectively and also contribute to that motocross look.

A nice engineering tweak seen on the bikes in DR-Z’s category is the almost longitudinally positioned engine. That has the clear purpose of allowing for a more than sufficient ground clearance, but also looks nice with that machine gun-like exhaust.

On the Yellow colored 2010 Suzuki DR-Z70 you get a black seat, white number plates and red graphics.

Press Reviews

"Pickup off the bottom is strong, but never violent with the short-stroke motor smoothing out the power pulses. It’s pretty healthy in the middle of the power curve and then tapers off as the revs build. It can easily be short-shifted and seems to prefer this as opposed to screaming the engine." – dirtrider

"Suspension is minimal, as you’d expect, though the Z70 has a single rear shock, compared to the dual shocks on the JR50. It does its job, and few new riders will think to complain. Small jumps are not out of the question, and the type of minor bumps a bike like this is likely to face are absorbed capably." – ultimatemotorcycling

Price

Because the Suzuki model reviewed today is superior to the bikes it competes with due to engine displacement, this won’t be quite the cheapest bike in its category, so expect the just under $2K price tag to make it competitive. As long as it justifies the extra cylinder capacity, it is fine with me.

Conclusion

Overall, a superior bike and, most importantly, one that doesn’t require a backload of cash in order to be purchased, the 2010 Suzuki DR-Z70 continues the long career started in the 1970s under a different name and keeps providing that unbeatable combination of user-friendliness and motocross style. No wonder kids look like glued to these things.

SPECIFICATIONS

Engine and Transmission

* Engine: 4-stroke, air-cooled
* Bore Stroke: 48.0 mm (1.890 in) x 37.0 mm (1.457 in)
* Compression Ratio: 9.5 : 1
* Fuel System: MIKUNI VM13
* Lubrication: Wet sump
* Ignition: Electronic ignition (CDI)
* Transmission: 3-speed constant mesh
* Final Drive: D.I.D 428, 78 links


Chassis and Dimensions

* Suspension Front: Inverted telescopic, coil spring
* Suspension Rear: Swingarm type, coil spring, oil damped
* Brakes Front: Drum brake
* Brakes Rear: Drum brake
* Tires Front: 2.50-10 33J, tube type
* Tires Rear: 2.50-10 33J, tube type
* Overall Length: 1320 mm (52.0 in)
* Overall Width: 580 mm (22.8 in)
* Overall Height: 790 mm (31.1 in)
* Seat Height: 560 mm (22.0 in)
* Ground Clearance: 135 mm (5.3 in)
* Wheelbase: 935 mm (36.8 in)
* Curb Weight: 55 kg (121 lbs)
* Fuel Tank Capacity: 3.0 L (0.8/0.7 US/Imp gal) - Including Reserve


Features & Benefits

Engine

* 67cc 4-stroke, SOHC, air cooled engine which is easy and enjoyable to ride with both electric and kick starter as standard equipment
* Four-stroke DR-Z70 engine meets strict emissions requirements including all California Green Sticker requirements
* Keyed ignition for maximum parent control and an easy-to-use handlebar-mounted start button for convenient operation
* Easy-to-operate 3 speed semi-automatic transmission with centrifugal clutch. Perfect for young riders just starting out


Chassis

* Aggressive RM-Z inspired styling for a big bike look and appeal
* Inverted front forks emphasize RM-Z inspired styling and offer enjoyable riding on a variety of terrain surfaces producing 3.8 inches of front wheel travel
* Low 22-inch seat height for entry level riders with a slightly forward-leaning riding position for maximum rider mobility
* Adjustable front brake lever to fit various sized hands producing optimum control for young riders
* Lightweight and durable steel frame and swingarm
* Strong braking performance provided by dual drum brakes front and rear
topspeed