2019 Suzuki Burgman 400 from Sri Lanka
Summary:
Robust and well-made bike
Faults:
A recurring error is a failure in the secondary throttle motor, which causes the motorcycle to lose power, although it does not necessarily cause it to stall.
The transmission requires strict maintenance. The belt must be changed every 24,000 km, and excessive wear can compromise transmission performance.
Unexpected stalls and starting problems, sometimes related to engine compression or injection system components.
It is crucial to monitor the oil level and battery to avoid further problems.
General Comments:
What Suzuki hasn't done is alter a proven formula for scooter success. It remains true to the maxi-scooter model, and if you've ridden a large, low-step-through scooter in recent years, especially a Burgman, this updated 400 will feel very familiar.
The bike remains a true Burgman, just like its predecessors. For me, this is a positive, as it retains the same simplicity of handling and ease of use, but with more technology and less exhaust noise.
The combination of its large size with the agility of small wheels, a riding position with the feet forward, and a powerful automatic transmission is exactly what you'd expect. As is its great practicality.
The long, low chassis makes the Burgman's hefty 218 kg easy to handle, low-speed balance is excellent, and with the continuously variable transmission (CVT), there's no need to worry about clutches or complicated gear changes: just keep accelerating. It's incredibly light to ride and very easy to control.
The suspension is nothing special. While it handles fairly well on smooth city streets, its basic setup makes for a simple ride, with the bike bouncing around corners and bottoming out over bumps.
Instead of the "luxury journey" Suzuki promises, it's a bit... well, a bit like a scooter. The chassis also feels somewhat unstable in crosswinds at high speed, despite the added stability provided by the new, larger 15-inch front wheel.
The brakes are bicycle-like: the front lever on the right handlebar and the rear on the left. The small discs and two-piston calipers offer sufficient stopping power, though not a great feeling of grip.
The engine is a 400cc, 4-stroke, single-cylinder unit. It incorporates a twin-spark cylinder head, new camshafts, revised valve timing, different injectors, and even a new piston.
It remains a friendly, buzzing engine that vibrates when stopped, but it's smooth on the move. It purrs on the highway.
Considering the amount of metal and plastic it carries, this unassuming single-cylinder is also quite frugal: Suzuki's claim of 70.6 mpg would require very controlled driving, but it's easy to get 60 mpg in normal use.
The 400's finish is good. The paint looks rich, it has LED lights everywhere, the display is effective, and I love the blue wheels. Unfortunately, some other elements of the 400 detract from it.
The faux carbon fiber pattern on the dashboard frame and exhaust shield is terribly dated.
The reliability has proven to be top-notch so far. It seems like the engine could last for many years and thousands of kilometers.
Anyone who owns a motorcycle like this should be mindful of and proactive in preventing corrosion, especially in humid conditions. High humidity will corrode the undercarriage and engine covers, and the bodywork can easily hide the damage.
Would you buy another motorcycle from this manufacturer? Yes
Review Date: 12th February, 2026