Supermoto motorcycles are a popular choice for riders who love to ride on different terrains. They offer the perfect balance between off-road capabilities and on-road performance. Two of the most popular are the KLX300SM and the DRZ400SM.
Both bikes are manufactured by Japanese companies and are known for their reliability, durability, and versatility.
Contents
Overview
Before we dive into the details, let’s take a quick look at the specs of each bike:
| Bike | KLX300SM | DRZ400SM |
|---|---|---|
| Engine | 292 cc liquid-cooled | 398 cc liquid-cooled |
| DOHC single-cylinder | DOHC single-cylinder | |
| Power | 27 hp @ 9,000 rpm | 39 hp @ 8,400 rpm |
| Torque | 19.3 lb-ft @ 7,500 rpm | 27.6 lb-ft @ 6,500 rpm |
| Weight | 304 lbs | 322 lbs |
| Price | $5,999 | $7,499 |
Design and Features
Both the KLX300SM and the DRZ400SM are designed for supermoto riding, which means they come with specific features that make them suitable for both off-road and on-road riding.
The KLX300SM has a sleek and stylish design that features a narrow fuel tank, low seat height, and a lightweight body.
It comes with a 292 cc liquid-cooled DOHC single-cylinder engine that delivers 27 horsepower and 19.3 lb-ft of torque.
The DRZ400SM, on the other hand, has a more rugged and aggressive design that features a wide fuel tank, high seat height, and a sturdy body.
It comes with a larger 398 cc liquid-cooled DOHC single-cylinder engine that delivers 39 horsepower and 27.6 lb-ft of torque.
Both bikes come with a six-speed transmission, disc brakes, and inverted front forks.
Performance
When it comes to performance, the DRZ400SM is the clear winner. With its larger engine and higher horsepower and torque output, it offers better acceleration and top speed compared to the KLX300SM.
The DRZ400SM also has better suspension and braking systems, which make it more stable and responsive on different terrains.
However, the KLX300SM is not far behind. Its smaller engine and lower horsepower and torque output make it more fuel-efficient and easy to handle, especially for novice riders.
The KLX300SM also has a lower weight, which makes it more agile and nimble on tight corners and turns.
Price
The KLX300SM is more affordable than the DRZ400SM, which makes it a great option for budget-conscious riders.
However, the DRZ400SM offers better value for money in terms of its performance, features, and durability.
It comes with a more powerful engine, better suspension and braking systems, and a larger fuel tank, which means you can ride longer without refueling.
Pros and Cons
To summarize, here are the pros and cons of each bike:
KLX300SM
Pros
- Lightweight and easy to handle
- Fuel-efficient engine
- Affordable price
- Stylish design
Cons
- Smaller engine with lower horsepower and torque output
- Less stable and responsive suspension and braking systems
- Lower top speed
- Less durable and rugged design
DRZ400SM
Pros
- Powerful engine with better acceleration and top speed
- Stable and responsive suspension and braking systems
- Large fuel tank for longer rides
- Durable and rugged design
Cons
- Higher price compared to KLX300SM
- Heavier and less agile than KLX300SM
- Higher maintenance costs
Conclusion
Choosing between the KLX300SM and the DRZ400SM ultimately depends on your riding style, preferences, and budget.
If you are a novice rider or looking for a more affordable option, the KLX300SM is a great choice. It offers a lightweight and stylish design, a fuel-efficient engine, and an affordable price.
However, if you are an experienced rider and looking for better performance, durability, and value for money, the DRZ400SM is the way to go.
It comes with a larger and more powerful engine, better suspension and braking systems, and a larger fuel tank, which makes it suitable for long rides and different terrains.
