MotoLibrary MotoLibrary
← Suzuki
Cross - Motocross · 1978

RM 400 C

User Rating: /5 · No user ratings yet ✓ Your rating was saved
MotoLibrary Score
46 /100 Balanced
Power/Weight
0.41 hp/kg
Top Speed
148 km/h
Torque
5 Nm
Engine
402 ccm

1978 Suzuki RM 400 C Technical Analysis & Specification Breakdown

Positioned in Suzuki's cross - motocross motorcycle lineup, the 1978 Suzuki RM 400 C utilizes a 402 cc (24.5 cu in) air-cooled single cylinder, two-stroke layout. In factory specification, peak output is rated at 43 HP (31.4 kW) at 6,500 rpm while maximum torque reaches 4.8 Nm (3.6 lb-ft) at 6,000 rpm, transferring power to the rear wheel through a 5-speed gearbox and chain final drive. With a specific output of 107 HP per liter and a 500 rpm working window between peak torque (6,000 rpm) and peak power (6,500 rpm), the engine character is reflecting a performance-oriented street tune that balances strong mid-range pull with an energetic top-end rush.

On the scales, the RM 400 C measures 105 kg (231 lbs) dry, translating to a power-to-weight ratio of 0.41 HP/kg (2.44 kg per horsepower). Rider ergonomics and chassis geometry center around a 1,450 mm (57.1 in) wheelbase engineered for balanced agility and highway composure. The 8.5-liter (2.2 US gal) fuel tank supports practical everyday commuting and weekend road stints, while factory top speed is listed at 148 km/h (92 mph).

Specific Output
107 HP/L
Power-to-Weight
0.41 HP/kg (2.44 kg/HP)
Power Band Window
6,000–6,500 rpm
Engine
Displacement 402.0 ccm (24.53 cubic inches)
Engine Type Single cylinder, two-stroke
Engine Details Single cylinder, two-stroke
Power 43.0 HP (31.4 kW)) @ 6500 RPM
Torque 4.8 Nm (0.5 kgf-m or 3.6 ft.lbs) @ 6000 RPM
Compression 6.7:1
Bore x Stroke 80.0 x 80.0 mm (3.1 x 3.1 inches)
Fuel System Carburettor. Mikuni VM36SS
Ignition Suzuki PEI
Cooling Air
Max RPM 6700
Transmission
Gearbox 5-speed
Final Drive Chain (final drive)
Clutch Wet Multiplate Type
Performance
Top Speed 148.0 km/h (92.0 mph)
Exhaust Expansion Chamber with silencer
Chassis
Frame Type High Tension Steel Pipe Single Downtube Semi Double Cradle
Front Suspension Telescopic coil spring air oil infinately adjustable damping
Front Travel 249 mm (9.8 inches)
Rear Suspension Suzuki Tru-Trac Twin shocks gas/oil damping aluminium swinging arm
Rear Travel 244 mm (9.6 inches)
Wheelbase 1450 mm (57.1 inches)
Ground Clearance 290 mm (11.4 inches)
Wheels & Brakes
Front Brakes Expanding brake (drum brake)
Rear Brakes Expanding brake (drum brake). full floating rear brake design
Dimensions & Weight
Dry Weight 105.0 kg (231.5 pounds)
Power/Weight 0.4095 HP/kg
Overall Height 1225 mm (48.2 inches)
Overall Length 2140 mm (84.3 inches)
Overall Width 885 mm (34.8 inches)
Fuel Capacity 8.50 litres (2.25 US gallons)
Other
Starter Kick
Color Options Yellow
More from Suzuki
Buying Checklist

Before You Compare This Bike

Use this page to compare this motorcycle by its real specifications, not only by model name. Focus on the details that affect fit, comfort, handling, range and ownership.

Power
Compare engine output with similar motorcycles if acceleration, highway use or two-up riding matters.
Torque
Torque is useful for judging real-world pull, especially for touring, commuting and loaded riding.
Weight
Compare weight carefully because it affects low-speed handling, parking and confidence.
Fuel Capacity
Fuel capacity helps estimate touring range and how often you may need to stop.
Brakes
Brake setup is worth comparing if you ride in traffic, mountains or with a passenger.
Suspension
Suspension details can matter for comfort, road feel and long-distance riding.
Transmission
Transmission and final drive affect maintenance, smoothness and everyday usability.
Rider Profile

Who Is This Bike For?

🟢
Beginner
A2 license compatible, manageable power.
🌲
Best For
Off-Road & Adventure
⚖️
Handling
Very lightweight — easy to handle
Estimate

Ownership Cost Calculator

⛽ Fuel
per year
🔧 Maintenance
per year
🛡️ Insurance
per year
TOTAL

* Estimates only. Actual costs vary by country, riding habits, insurance provider and maintenance schedule.

MotoLibrary
🏠 Home 🔍 All Bikes 📂 Categories ⚖️ Compare 🎛️ Advanced Filter 🎯 Bike Finder 🎬 Videos 📰 Blog 📖 Glossary ℹ️ About

🍪 We use cookies for analytics & ads. Cookie Policy