A Complete Guide to Suzuki 50cc Dirt Bike, DR-Z50

Starting your child on a journey to two-wheeled freedom may seem like a daunting task. The concerns for safety and a smooth glide along different paths can be overwhelming. Also, when you’re shelling out a pretty penny for a bike, you want it to last for years to come. Well, we went fishing for the best in the motorcycle market. Here is the perfect ride we found: the 2023 Suzuki 50cc dirt bike, DR-Z50. 

This incredible machine is the ultimate perfect introduction to the world of motorcycling. It is suitable for young and novice riders. The Suzuki DR-Z50 is a reliable off-road bike designed for kids.

If you’re a parent looking to ignite your child’s passion for dirt biking, the DR-Z50 is the perfect mini. It offers an enjoyable experience, and mostly importantly, safe ride.But don’t take only our word for it. Let’s explore the facts.

Suzuki 50cc dirt bike is a 4-stroke compact mini-bike that boasts an automatic clutch. It also delivers a controlled power output for a smooth ride. Riders can get a top speed of 30mph. Many riders have reported getting a drag of 33mph from its 3-speed constant mesh transmission.  

With the electric start, getting that braaap has never been easier. But there’s more, this e-starter also has a backup primary kick starter. 

Related Article: Best 50cc dirt bike for kids [Top Picks] – 2023 Buyers Guide

Kid riding 50cc suzuki dirt bike DR Z 50 in the trail

For parents, the DRZ50 offers peace of mind as well. The power level is adjustable by adult supervisors. This ensures that young riders learn at a proper pace. At a base price of $2,499, this bike is not a steal. But, this rear “Made in Japan” quality bike offers great value for its impressive capabilities and rugged construction.

Also, the low 22-inch seat height is the perfect size for this off-roading trail bike. It will build the confidence and riding ability of young riders between the ages of 5 to 8. Its sleek lines and compact frame make it easy for young riders to mount and dismount.

But the DR-Z50 isn’t only a pretty face. First introduced in 2006, the DR-Z50 has become a popular choice for families. This is especially because it has undergone several updates over the years. Since it reflects new trends and safety regulations, we agree with the improvements. 

It’s also essential considering that the DRZ50 mini-bike has big shoes to fit. This is when compared to its predecessor, the Suzuki JR50 with a storied history of being a classic. The DR-Z50 four-stroke engine is more powerful. It also has larger front and rear wheels, all necessary additions. They make the bike more stable and maneuverable on rough terrain. 

The JR50 is sought after by collectors and vintage bike enthusiasts alike. But the DR-Z50 is more modern. Like the 2023 trim, the 2022 and 2021 trims are also available in Champion Yellow No. 2 color. This review will let you in on why the DR-Z50 is not limited to a modern fad but an ideal choice for a 50cc powerhouse. 

Review of Suzuki 50cc Dirt bike, DR-Z50 

Isolated image of Suzuki 50cc Dirt Bike, DR-Z50 in blue background

The Suzuki DR-Z50 is a popular dirt bike that has captured the hearts of young riders. When you look at the following rundown of its features and capabilities, it’s not difficult to see why:

Performance

Underneath its stylish exterior lies a powerful 1-cylinder, 50cc engine. This delivers a smooth and responsive ride. The engine is air-cooled SOHC. It provides reliable performance without the need for messy oil changes. 

The DR-Z50 can reach a top speed of around 30 mph. This is fast enough to be exciting but not too fast for inexperienced riders. Its ground clearance of 135mm is low but ideal for good stability in a mini-bike.

Convenience

The bike’s air-cooled engine requires minimal maintenance. The DR-Z50 is quiet and fuel-efficient. It is also EMA Emissions compliant. This makes it a great choice for parents and kids who are conscious of their carbon footprint.

The DR-Z50 is also easy to maintain, which is a plus for busy parents. This bike comes with a tool kit that makes it easy to perform basic maintenance tasks.

Ride Handling

The best thing about the DR-Z50 is the experience it gives. Riding this bike is like embarking on a wild adventure with ease. Its 3-speed transmission allows riders to master key-shifting techniques easily. 

The suspension system soaks up bumps and jumps. The front and rear brakes are drum brakes. They are not super efficient like disc brakes though. But for a mini-bike, it has all the stopping power a kid needs to regain control while riding. 

Additionally, the low seat height and easy-to-reach controls make it easy for beginners. Kids can feel confident and comfortable on this bike. The bike’s knobby tires grip the ground. With it comes the confidence they need to tackle challenging terrains. It’s all about getting ahead as the riding position is forward-leaning.

Engineering of the DR-Z50 Suzuki 50cc dirt bike

Close up image of Suzuki 50cc Dirt Bike, DR-Z50 in dark background

The Suzuki DR-Z50 is a marvel of engineering. The precision and care put into its manufacture give an exceptional off-road experience. Its engine paired with a smooth-shifting three-speed transmission is capable of quick acceleration. The suspension system has a telescopic front fork. It has a swingarm-type, oil-damped rear suspension.

Resale Value 

The Suzuki DR-Z50 is a bike that has gained a reputation for its durability and reliability. As a result, it has a high resale value compared to other dirt bikes in its class. This is because the bike lasts a long time with proper maintenance and care. Its parts are available and affordable. 

Furthermore, the DR-Z50 has a loyal following among riders. This helps to keep its resale value strong. For instance, the 2019 trim of the DR-Z50 has a listing price of $1,595 on the Kelley Blue Book. But sellers can get a trade-in value of $1,035. The 2023 model is still new and there’s no current market value for a used one. But you can expect to get a great deal like the older model.

Rival Brands

You will find that there are quite a lot of market offerings for 50cc dirt bikes. This review of the DR-Z50 against its competitors is a timely saver. The Honda CRF50 is a top competitor of the Suzuki DR-Z50. It boasts a durable construction made to withstand the rigors of off-road riding. 

These bikes are both pint-sized powerhouses. They are perfect for young riders getting started and share many similarities. They both have a 50cc air-cooled engine with 3-speed transmission. The Suzuki drz50 has a sleek and streamlined design. There is also the bold and eye-catching yellow and black color scheme. 

While the CRF50 is marked by its striking red and white graphics and fun, sporty styling. It has a higher ground clearance of 146mm which gives it a bigger boost on dirt roads. It stands tall at a seat height of 560mm. This makes future adjustments more efficient. But the CRF50 starter is a kick starter which is less convenient than the DR-Z50 features of an e-starter.

Another formidable rival of the DR-Z50 is the Yamaha TTR50. When it comes to the DR-Z50 and the Yamaha TTR50, there are a few noticeable differences. The TTR50 has a bright and playful blue and white design. The TTR50 has a higher seat height than the DR-Z50, making it a good option for taller riders.

DR-Z50CRF50TTR50
Price$2,499$1,699$1,749
Engine/Stroke49cc, 4-stroke50cc, 4-stroke50cc, 4-stroke
Transmission3-speed3-speed3-speed
Seat height22 inches21.6 inches21.9 inches
Top speed30mph30mph30mph
Suzuki DR-Z50 vs Honda CRF50 vs Yamaha TTR50

Styling

Isolated image of Suzuki 50cc Dirt Bike, DR-Z50 in blurry background

The first thing you’ll notice about the DR-Z50 is its eye-catching design. The bike comes in a striking Champion Yellow No. 2 and black color. It has bold graphics that give it a sporty, adventurous look. The Suzuki logo is displayed on the front fender and fuel tank. 

The styling of the Suzuki DR-Z50 is both attractive and functional. It is inspired by Suzuki’s championship-winning motocross bikes. The DR-Z50 also features a sleek and streamlined body design. This body adaptation makes it both aerodynamic and visually appealing. 

The bike has sharp angles and smooth curves. This gives it a modern and stylish look that is sure to impress. The body panels on the bike are durable and resistant to scratches and damage. This ensures the bike looks great for years to come.

Safety

The DR-Z50 also features a range of safety features. This makes it a great choice for parents who want to ensure their child’s safety. The bike comes with a chain guard that prevents clothing or body parts from getting caught in the chain. Serrated footpegs prevent foot slips.

There is a throttle limiter that allows parents to control the bike’s maximum speed. Ergonomic safety is also taken into consideration. The bike’s low seat height and lightweight construction reduce the risk of accidents.

The Suzuki DR-Z50 has a weight limit of 132 pounds ideal for young riders. It is important to adhere to the weight limit hence, only one rider should be on it at a time. Exceeding this weight limit can lead to unstable handling. Also, the bike is for off-road use with a ground clearance of 5.3 inches.

DRZ50 Specifications

Here are the DRZ50 specs of the Suzuki 50cc dirt bike:

Engine and Transmission

Engine4stroke, 1-cylinder, air-cooled, SOHC
Transmission3-speed constant mesh
ClutchAutomatic clutch
Final DriveChain
Power ReductionAdjustable throttle limiter

Starter and Gas Capacity

Key ignitionYes
StarterElectric and kick starter
Fuel capacity3.0L (0.8/0.7 US Imp gallon)

Chassis, Suspension, and Brakes

Suspension FrontInverted telescopic, coil spring
Suspension RearSwingarm type, coil spring, oil damped
Brakes FrontDrum
Brakes RearDrum
Tires Front2.50-10 33J, tube type
Tires Rear2.50-10 33J, tube type

Dimensions

Seat Height22.0 inches (560mm)
Ground Clearance5.3 inches (135mm)
Weight119 lbs (54kg)
Overall Length52.0 inches (1320mm)
Overall Width22.8 inches (580mm)
Overall Height31.1 inches (790mm)

Price and Warranty

Price$2,499
Warranty6-month limited
Extended WarrantyAvailable

Comparison of the Suzuki JR50 Legacy Model to the DR-Z50

The Suzuki DR-Z50 and Suzuki JR50 are both great options for kids looking to get into dirt biking. Although the Suzuki JR50 line has been discontinued, collectors are on the lookout for it. This is not without reason as the JR50 was a legacy during its time. Here are some key features between the two bikes.

The DR-Z50 has a larger 49cc 4-stroke engine, while the JR50 has a smaller 50cc 2-stroke engine. This means that the DR-Z50 produces more power and torque. This makes it a better choice for riders who want a bit more oomph. 

Another area where the DR-Z50 shines is the suspension system. The DR-Z50 has an inverted telescopic front fork and a swingarm rear suspension. They both come with a cork spring. This means that it can absorb shocks and bumps more effectively. The result is a smoother ride. 

The JR50 has a conventional telescopic front fork and a twin-shock rear suspension. The travel inch on this suspension system may not be as effective on rough terrain. The DR-Z50 weighs slightly more than the JR50. It has a dry weight of 119 pounds compared to JR50’s 84 pounds. This difference can affect the bike’s handling and maneuverability.

Conclusion

Finally, the Suzuki 50cc dirt bike DR-Z50 is an excellent dirt bike option for kids. It offers a perfect mix of user-friendly controls, performance and safety.

When buying a Suzuki DRZ50, the bike is available at Suzuki dealerships across the United States, Canada and some other countries. They could be found in Australia as well, mainly as a used bike. The newer 2022/2023 models are not offered in Australia anymore.

Getting the parts is also easy in case you want an upgrade. So far, the buying experience has been generally positive. A lot of dealerships offer a range of financing and warranty options. This makes purchasing a DR-Z50 even easier.

But as a bike made for kids, it would be refreshing to see its carburetor upgraded. An upgrade of the Mikuni mixer to the more modern electronic fuel injector will cut a lot of drags. This includes jets from the air and atmosphere. As a plus, it is a lot more fuel-efficient.

FAQs

How much is a Suzuki 50 dirt bike?

The 2023 Suzuki DR-Z50 dirt bike sells for $2,499. This price may vary with dealers and promotional offers.

How fast does a Suzuki 50 dirt bike go?

The Suzuki DR-Z50 dirt bike has a top speed of around 30 miles per hour (48 kilometers per hour). But, depending on many factors, there could be variations in speed. These factors include the rider’s weight and skill level. Even the terrain type can affect how fast a Suzuki 50 dirt bike can go.

 Is a Suzuki DR-Z50 2-stroke or 4-stroke?

The Suzuki DR-Z50 has a 4-stroke engine. It is a powerful engine that can handle tough terrains.

What is the Suzuki DR-Z50 top speed?

The Suzuki DR-Z50 dirt bike has a top speed of around 30 miles per hour (48 kilometers per hour).

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