In the early stages of motorcycle development, every motorcycle was a dual-purpose motorcycle. Riders have a motorcycle that they can ride on any road surface as they please (or rather, they have to!). But with the advancement of technology and the improvement of speed, the design of motorcycles has become more focused and their uses have become more clear. Although motorcycles that can perfectly handle road or off-road riding are also satisfying, the sense of freedom brought by motorcycles that can gallop on any terrain is one of the best experiences of motorcycle riding. The ratio of road and off-road performance varies greatly, but manufacturers call this type of motorcycle the same: dual-purpose motorcycle. And we call them ‘golden oils’.
There are many high-quality dual-purpose motorcycles produced by manufacturers on the market, but in the lightweight 400 cc Among the following levels, we have selected three recently outstanding models: Suzuki’s redesigned DR-Z4S、KTM The newly launched 390 Enduro R And the time tested Husqvarna FE 350。 Each car can provide different choices for consumers who are looking for single cylinder all terrain motorcycles. This comparison not only focuses on relative performance, but also pays attention to your riding needs.
In some ways, these three motorcycles are very similar: Suzuki KTM and Husqvarna The difference between displacement and horsepower is only 49 cc And 5 horses. But there is also a big difference between them: the manufacturer’s suggested retail price differs by $7550. Although these three motorcycles have different styles, their goal is the same: to create a motorcycle that can seamlessly connect road and off-road surfaces.
Showroom Floor Showdown
KTM 390 Enduro R It is the latest member in the field of dual-purpose motorcycles. This new model is compatible with 390 Duke A shared platform has been developed to create a road dual-purpose motorcycle equipped with a riding assistance system. The price of 390 is 5499 US dollars, which is 3500 US dollars cheaper than other models in this test.
Suzuki’s Classic Dual Use Motorcycle DR-Z400 A comprehensive upgrade has been carried out, including a brand new engine, chassis, and electronic devices. DR-Z4S It is the most exquisite and feature rich version of the brand’s legendary single cylinder dual-purpose motorcycle to date, and has now become Suzuki’s flagship model in this class, priced at up to $8999. DR-Z400S The suggested retail price when it first debuted in 2001 was $5449; Adjusted for inflation rate to 2025 US dollar value, it is approximately 9959 US dollars.
Huswana’s FE 350s It is a high-performance dual-purpose motorcycle, designed based on the company’s competitive off-road motorcycle. In fact, many components of this dual-purpose motorcycle can be interchanged with off-road motorcycles. FE 350s After upgrading, it is equipped with a brand new engine and chassis, and such outstanding performance also means its top selling price of $13049.
KTM engine
Although these motorcycles differ in purpose, design, and price, their engine layouts are similar and their horsepower output is also similar: DOHC Liquid cooled fuel injection single cylinder engine with rear wheel horsepower of around 30.
390 Enduro R Equipped with KTM Multi functional LC4c The engine underwent a comprehensive upgrade last year and will be available in the 2024 model 390 Duke Debuted for the first time. This brand new 399 cc The displacement of the water-cooled single cylinder engine has increased compared to the previous 373 cc Improved and transmitted power through a six speed gearbox with a sliding clutch. It is applied to KTM A series of lightweight motorcycles, including 390 Duke、390 SMC R And 390 Adventure R。 Except for the engine management system and final transmission ratio, the powertrain remains largely unchanged across different vehicle models. 390 Enduro R Use a 48 tooth rear sprocket.
KTM of LC4c The engine is full of power and the driving pleasure is endless. It increases its speed rapidly and shifts actively, thanks to its ability to output optimal power at high speeds. If paired with a quick shifter and smooth forest lanes, 390 Enduro R It is completely comparable to the same level models of Suzuki and Huswana. However, as the road conditions become more rugged and complex, higher gear ratios and insufficient torque, coupled with the heaviest vehicle weight in this test (which we will discuss in detail later), make KTM The engine is difficult to control.
This 399 cc Single cylinder engines perform well at high speeds, “Wahid explained. It has a rapid increase in RPM and a sensitive power response, encouraging riders to maintain high-speed driving. However, the disadvantage is that the low-speed torque curve is slightly insufficient, which is not ideal for low-speed technical riding
Connor agrees with this, saying, “The power output of this engine requires effort. The power at low revs is relatively weak, and the power at medium revs is also slightly insufficient. This engine only truly works in the high-speed range, which is not a problem when driving on the street, but on off-road roads, you must maintain high revs to maximize its performance.
On the street, KTM The performance is truly stunning. It is based on 390 Duke The latter is an ideal choice for commuting and mountain road racing. With strong high-speed power and high gear ratio, KTM It can easily reach three digit speeds – it is also the only motorcycle in this test that can achieve this. Whether overtaking on highways or speeding through bends on mountain roads, KTM They can provide the best acceleration power when driving at high speeds. However, among these three motorcycles, KTM 390 Enduro R The vibration is most obvious, Husqvarna Following closely behind. Suzuki’s vibration is the smallest.
Suzuki engine
Suzuki’s old 398 cc DOHC The water-cooled single cylinder engine has undergone significant improvements, including the adoption of redesigned intake ports, optimized valve timing, and a new cylinder head for fuel injection systems. The five speed gearbox was retained, but also upgraded to reduce oil and gas interference and increase strength.
The characteristics of Suzuki engines and KTM completely opposite. DR-Z The speed increase is slow, the low torque is abundant, and the mid section power is strong, making it easy and comfortable to ride in complex terrain. Although the high-speed power is not as strong as the competitors, you can still control the speed and keep the engine running until the maximum speed, thus better cornering. When you really increase the RPM, DR-Z The power output will deviate from its optimal mid speed range, losing some explosive power. At the same time, the vibration of the pedals and handlebars will also increase. As long as you ride in its most comfortable speed range, you will also feel happy.
“DR-Z4S The power output is very direct, and you can feel the surging power from idle, “Wahid said. This 398 cc The water-cooled single cylinder engine can unleash strong torque at low speeds, making it easy to handle whether driving slowly on rugged off-road roads or starting at traffic lights on city roads. Its power output, although not explosive, is smooth, linear, and efficient.
Whether in urban areas, off-road roads, or winding mountain roads, Suzuki’s five speed gearbox can work well, but once the speed exceeds 65 miles per hour, DR-Z4S The power began to noticeably decrease. Even if the accelerator is pressed to the bottom, the speedometer pointer can slowly climb to 90 miles per hour, but DR-Z Still not an ideal partner on the highway. Within the speed range below 65 miles per hour, DR-Z4S Excellent performance, its combination of gear ratio and torque gives it excellent response speed. and KTM Compared to Suzuki, it can shift up one gear on the same road section, providing stronger acceleration power and helping the vehicle easily take turns or climb slopes.
The auxiliary sliding clutch also plays a significant role, “Wahid said. The clutch lever is easy to operate, reducing fatigue in stop and go traffic conditions or long-distance off-road riding. The sliding function makes aggressive downshifts smoother, even if the shifting operation is slightly rough, it can maintain rear wheel stability.
In urban environments, DR-Z Excellent performance. The lighter clutch lever and power assist function make it the easiest motorcycle to start, and its abundant torque also gives it exciting power. However, once the speed exceeds about 65 miles per hour, the original factory condition DR-Z It seems inferior to long-distance travel KTM That’s it.
Huswana engine
2025 model Husqvarna FE 350s Equipped with a source from FC 350 Off road motorcycle 349 cc DOHC Water cooled single cylinder engine, certified for street driving, with a compression ratio reduced to 13.7:1 and equipped with a smaller 44 mm The throttle body and exhaust system with spark suppressors that comply with the emission standards of 50 states in the United States. It is the most sporty engine in this test, paired with Pankl Racing Systems Six speed gearbox, 13000 rpm Speed limiter and Brembo Hydraulic clutch.
Husky’s low torque explosive power is not as good as Suzuki’s, and its high-speed power is also not as good KTM Powerful, but it can provide the easiest to control power throughout the entire speed range. When driving at low speeds, the power output is direct and easy to control. This engine has amazing low-speed driving ability, and can instantly unleash amazing power by quickly shifting the clutch lever. With the increase of speed, this 350 cc The mid section power response of the engine is sensitive, and it is even more exciting when the speed rises.
The gearbox shifts smoothly, the clutch lever is light and the engagement is clear, but FE The vibration is very loud. Whether commuting in the city or driving on off-road roads connecting the city, FE 350s It will continue to produce a buzzing sound.
Its torque and sound are unexpectedly strong, and it feels like DR-Z4S and KTM The 400 cc The engine level needs to be strong, “Wahid said. That being said, its vibration is also quite noticeable – compared to KTM 390 Enduro R It should be small, but bigger than the smooth running Suzuki
The gearbox shifts smoothly, the clutch lever is light and the engagement is clear, but FE The vibration is very loud. Whether commuting in the city or driving on off-road roads connecting the city, FE 350s It will continue to produce a buzzing sound.
Its torque and sound are unexpectedly strong, and it feels like DR-Z4S and KTM The 400 cc The engine level needs to be strong, “Wahid said. That being said, its vibration is also quite noticeable – compared to KTM 390 Enduro R It should be small, but bigger than the smooth running Suzuki
KTM electron
KTM Equipped with 4.5 inches TFT Display screen, with access to cycling modes (street, off-road), switchable traction control, and adjustable ABS， And other functions, such as smartphone connectivity and USB-C Charging port. Our test car is also equipped with a bidirectional quick shifter – an optional configuration worth $274.
KTM The electronic control system is easy to operate and the dashboard display is clear. All riding assistance functions can be completely turned off. After switching modes, there will be a significant change in the vehicle’s power output, ABS The system is almost imperceptible on paved roads. But we chose Pirelli with deeper tread patterns for testing MT21 Tires, therefore, the tuning of street traction control is too sensitive for highway driving, which is also reasonable. After switching the traction control back to off-road mode, the system will not activate on paved roads. For a motorcycle priced at $5499, having such a comprehensive riding assistance system is truly stunning. Although it may not have been perfectly tuned for off-road tires with strong grip, if you are indeed using off-road tires for intense driving, you can flexibly turn off the ride assist function.
Suzuki Electronics
new model DR-Z Equipped with Suzuki Intelligent Cycling System, providing three power modes (A, B, C), three-level traction control (1, 2, Gravel), and two-level ABS（ Both front and rear wheels are activated or only the front wheels are activated. The rider can also completely close the front and rear wheels ABS， Realize zero intervention. LCD The display screen and Suzuki driving mode selector are easy to operate, making it convenient for riders to change settings at any time.
Connor said, “Among these three, the control mode and screen experience are the best
Suzuki DR-Z Switching between the three throttle modes will bring significant differences. When cycling in high-altitude areas, we mostly use the most aggressive ones A Mode has been activated and traction control has been turned off. B The mode is also in motion, but the power output is not as good at low speeds A The mode is strong. C The mode is designed specifically for rainy days and beginners. DR-Z The gravel road traction control (G mode) performs well as an assisted driving mode, not limiting cycling. in G In mode, the rider can raise dust, drift over bends, and tilt their head, while also enjoying additional assistance from traction control.
The system has been carefully tuned, and each mode can bring significant but not abrupt changes in characteristics, “Wahid said.
HusWarner Electronics
Husqvarna FE 350s Not equipped with any riding assistance system at all. and Husqvarna of FC 350 Unlike off-road motorcycles, due to emission regulations, FE It does not provide functions such as map switching, quick gear shifting, or traction control. but FE 350s Provides some unique features, such as tool free adjustment of suspension dampers, tool free replacement of air filters Pro Taper Handlebars and ODI Locking type handle sleeve.
Connor said, “This car doesn’t have many electronic devices, no mode options, and no other way to control traction or braking besides the rider’s operation, but this is exactly what most people who buy this car expect. The dashboard is simple and clear, providing only basic functions
Some riders may wish Husqvarna FE 350s Can be like Suzuki and KTM It is also equipped with riding assistance kit, but it cannot be denied that, Husqvarna The target audience seems to value the ultimate off-road performance more than anything else TC、ABS And cycling mode.
2025 KTM 390 Enduro R Specs
| MSRP: | $5499 |
| Engine: | DOHC, liquid-cooled, 4-stroke single-cylinder, 4 valves |
| Displacement: | 399cc |
| Bore x Stroke: | 89.0 x 64.0mm |
| Compression Ratio: | 12.6:1 |
| Transmission/Final Drive: | 6-speed/chain |
| Cycle World | 35.3 hp @ 9270 rpm |
| Cycle World | 20.9 lb.-ft. @ 8550rpm |
| Fuel System: | Bosch EFI w/ 46mm throttle body; ride-by-wire |
| Clutch: | Wet, multiplate antihopping slipper; cable actuation |
| Frame: | Steel trellis |
| Front Suspension: | 43mm WP Apex, compression and rebound damping adjustable; 9.1 in. travel |
| Rear Suspension: | WP Apex monoshock, preload and rebound damping adjustable; 9.1 in. travel |
| Front Brake: | 2-piston caliper, 285mm floating disc w/ ABS |
| Rear Brake: | 1-piston caliper, 240mm floating disc w/ ABS |
| Wheels, Front/Rear: | Wire spoke; 21 x 1.85 in. / 18 x 2.5 in. |
| Tires, Front/Rear: | 90/90-21 / 140/80-18 |
| Rake/Trail: | 27.1°/4.2 in. |
| Wheelbase: | 58.1 in. |
| Ground Clearance: | 10.7 in. |
| Seat Height: | 35.0 in. |
| Fuel Capacity: | 2.4 gal. |
| Cycle World | 351.6 lb. |
| Contact: | ktm.com |
2025 Suzuki DR-Z4S Specs
| MSRP: | $8999 |
| Engine: | DOHC, liquid-cooled, 4-stroke single-cylinder, 4 valves |
| Displacement: | 398cc |
| Bore x Stroke: | 90.0 x 62.6mm |
| Compression Ratio: | 11.1:1 |
| Transmission/Final Drive: | 5-speed/chain |
| Cycle World | 33.5 hp @ 8120 rpm |
| Cycle World | 23.9 lb.-ft. @ 6610 rpm |
| Fuel System: | Fuel injection w/ 42mm throttle body, ride-by-wire |
| Clutch: | Wet, multiplate SCAS slipper clutch; cable actuation |
| Frame: | Steel twin-spar |
| Front Suspension: | KYB 46mm inverted telescopic fork, compression and rebound damping adjustable; 11.0 in. travel |
| Rear Suspension: | KYB link-type shock, spring preload, compression, and rebound damping adjustable; 11.7 in. travel |
| Front Brake: | 2-piston caliper, 270mm disc w/ Bosch ABS |
| Rear Brake: | 1-piston caliper, 240mm disc w/ Bosch ABS |
| Wheels, Front/Rear: | Wire spoke; 21 x 1.6 in. /18 x 2.2 in. |
| Tires, Front/Rear: | 80/100-21 / 120/80-18 |
| Rake/Trail: | 27.5°/4.3 in. |
| Wheelbase: | 58.9 in. |
| Ground Clearance: | 11.8 in. |
| Seat Height: | 36.2 in. |
| Fuel Capacity: | 2.3 gal. |
| Cycle World | 318.2 lb. |
| Contact: | suzukicycles.com |
Husqvarna FE 350s Specs
| MSRP: | $13,049 |
| Engine: | DOHC, liquid-cooled, 4-stroke single-cylinder, 4 valves |
| Displacement: | 350cc |
| Bore x Stroke: | 88.0 x 57.5mm |
| Compression Ratio: | 13.7:1 |
| Transmission/Final Drive: | 6-speed/chain |
| Cycle World | 30 hp @ 7860 rpm |
| Cycle World | 20.3 lb.-ft. @ 7340 rpm |
| Fuel System: | EFI w/ 42mm throttle body |
| Clutch: | Wet, multiplate Damped Diaphragm Steel (DDS); hydraulic actuation |
| Frame: | Central double-cradle chromoly steel |
| Front Suspension: | WP Xact 48mm closed-cartridge coil-spring fork, compression and rebound damping adjustable; 11.8 in. travel |
| Rear Suspension: | WP Xact shock, spring preload, high/low-speed compression and rebound damping adjustable; 11.8 in. travel |
| Front Brake: | Brembo 2-piston caliper, 260mm disc |
| Rear Brake: | Brembo 1-piston caliper, 220mm disc |
| Tires, Front/Rear: | 90/90-21 / 140/90-18 |
| Rake/Trail: | 26.1°/NA |
| Wheelbase: | 58.6 in. |
| Ground Clearance: | 13.5 in. |
| Seat Height: | 37.48 in. |
| Fuel Capacity: | 2.1 gal. |
| Cycle World | 252.4 lb. |
| Contact: | husqvarna-motorcycles.com |
Blake’s Gearbox
Helmet: Fox V3
Goggles: 100 Percent Armega
Jersey: Fox Ranger Off Road
Pants: Fox Ranger Off Road
Gloves: Fox Legion
Boots: Fox Motion
Adam’s Gearbox
Helmet: Simpson Journey Bandit
Jacket: Leatt Moto 4.5 X-Flow
Jersey: Leatt Moto 4.5 Enduro
Pants: Leatt Moto 4.5 HydraDri
Gloves: Leatt Moto 4.5 Lite
Boots: Leatt 4.5 Enduro
Evan’s Gearbox
Helmet: Alpinestars Supertech M10
Goggles: Alpinestars Vision 5 Corp
Jacket: Alpinestars Lite-Dura Softshell
Jersey: Alpinestars Pro-Dura
Pants: Alpinestars Pro-Dura
Gloves: Alpinestars Full Bore
Boots: Alpinestars Tech 7
