The KLX is clear winner of the horsepower war, due in large part to 50 extra cubic centimeters of displacement
Like the Honda, both the Suzuki and Kawasaki have extremely soft suspensions. The KLX's Uni-Trak single shock bottomed out on bigger hits, even after we cranked up the preload. Likewise the Suzuki's adjustable gas/oil-damped adjustable shock isn't nearly as stiff as we would like.
Even on single-track trails, Kawasaki's inverted 43mm cartridge fork was too soft for our group, as was Suzuki's conventional fork. There is no question these three machines could use stiffer suspensions for more experienced and aggressive riders.
The brakes on each of the mini-Thumpers are surprisingly good. All three boast hydraulic disc brakes in the front and rear. There was not much to distinguish the performance between the brake systems. All three sets perform as one might expect, neither causing our testers to sing their praises or admonish them for poor performance.
Throughout our grueling test, the trio held up remarkably well. The only maintenance required was replenishing the fuel tanks, which was rare. The DR-Z has the largest fuel capacity with a 2.8-gallon tank, while the Honda has a 2.4; the KLX splits the difference.
As our test came to a conclusion it was apparent that each of these machines offered something different. The Kawasaki is a bike that is something of a motocross wannabe with a few features the others don't have, most notably more displacement and power for the same amount of money.
The Honda was less of a motocrosser, but is an excellent way to join the off-road experience. A look at its vitals reveals old-world technology like air cooling and a traditional fork. Yet, in typical Honda fashion, the XR over-achieves thanks in large part to refined engineering.
Even though this trio is designed for the same general purpose, each bike has its own particular strengths.
Lastly, the Suzuki is a seemingly mild trail bike with the magic button. Ride it as hard as you want and it will respond even though it was never intended to win a motocross championship. Basically, the DR-Z, like its competitors, is just a really good beginner bike.
So what's the best bang for your buck? After weeks of riding on the trails of Southern Oregon, our testers were asked the tough question: If you had $4,700 bucks to buy one of these three bikes, on which one would you plop down your hard-earned cash?
This question nagged at our testers for a long time. Frequent visits to my email inbox revealed that our testers were either struggling with the question or just plain lazy. I approached each one individually for an answer and what I got was not procrastination, but indecisiveness because each bike offers something different.
