Suzuki DR—Z400SM, KTM 950SM, And Ducati Hypermotard — Urban Assault Vehicles

Despite the Suzuki's meager 398cc single cylinder motor it was still able to keep up with the big boys around town. It's definitely not as brainless and easy to ride fast as the much larger twin cylinder bikes, but that simply means more rider involvement for more reward.

The Suzuki is the closest to a dirtbike on street wheels which makes it the easiest transition for dirt riders getting into street bikes. At the controls the bike literally feels like it was rolled off the trail and onto the street.

No, it isn't as glamorous as the Ducati or as vigorous as the KTM, but it also costs half as much. But in this case you get more than you paid for.

At just 295 pounds dry it feels like a feather compared to the bigger bruisers. Around town this is an important element because maneuverability is key. Whether it's skirting down a gravel strewn alley or trolling down a set of train tracks, the DR-Z400SM uses its lithesome stature to its advantage.

While light on its feet it's also a bit soft under the hood, but only when compared back top back with bikes sporting motors twice its size. Taken on its own, a hefty slip of the clutch or a snappy yank on the brake lever will have the Suzuki acting just as deviant as any supermoto style ride around.

So does it come in first or last? That ultimately depends on where your budget is because it offers all of the thrills of the bigger and more expensive bikes, but it comes only at the cost of more effort.