2017 - 2021 Suzuki Burgman 400 review | Dependable A2 maxi-scooter gets a sporty makeover

Additional words by Alison Silcox and Adam Child

The Suzuki Burgman 400 scooter is an A2-licence friendly middleweight twist-and-go. Its 2017 update brings this large scooter up to date, with the firm improving performance, reducing the overall weight by 7kg, and giving it a slimmer, sportier look.

It’s nimbler around town and the revamped 400cc single cylinder engine is now Euro4 compliant and has improved low to mid-range torque. This ensures a swift and progressive ride on the open road.

The 2017 model went on to be replaced by the 2022 Suzuki Burgman 400 which was subtly updated for Euro5 and to keep up with new competition from rivals like the Yamaha XMAX 300 and Honda ADV350.

Big scooters are used for just about everything in Europe: touring, weekend blasts, two-up trips to the beach. And yet in the UK we view them as the preserve of kids in hoodies, bike thieves, and wealthy middle-aged commuters.

Scooters may not be fashionable with motorcyclists, but when it comes to commuting they tick all the boxes and are fun beyond the city’s limits, too. Maybe we can learn a thing or two from our European cousins after all.

While it's a seriously practical, low-cost scooter, there's also a large enthusiast scene for the Burgman. After you've read this review and our owners' reviews, why not join the fun at Maxi-muppets.co.uk?

Suzuki Burgman 400 updated for 2021

Suzuki are taking the fight to their mid-sized maxi scooter rivals in 2021 with major updates to their Burgman 400 range.

Now Euro5 compliant, helped by an extra catalyser, the 28.6bhp 400cc twist-and-go single is said to have improved throttle control, plus ‘balanced’ low to midrange torque. This is achieved through a number of alterations, including revised cam profiles, piston, injectors and twin-plug cylinder head - which ae also claimed to improve fuel consumption.

Keeping everything upright on slippery city streets is a new traction control system, plus a revised ABS unit – now said to be a whole 36g lighter (every little helps!) The brand’s one-touch easy start system included, too. The Burgman becomes even more practical thanks to 42 litres of underseat storage, plus an additional 6.3 upfront with 12V charging socket.

All of this is nothing to the city rider without security and the Burgman gets an immobiliser system, magnetic ignition barrel cover and the ability to pass a chain through the bodywork and around the frame.

The 2021 Suzuki Burgman 400 will hit the market in September costing £6799, so keep an eye out for that full review coming soon.

Read on for our definite verdict of the 2017-on Burgman 400...

Rider comfort is improved and the seating position of the new 400 is lower, roomier and inspires confidence. Seat height is increased to 755mm, has been made narrower, has a 20mm thicker pad and there’s an adjustable lumber support.  Newly shaped foot-boards make it easier to get feet down.

The Burgman's seat is really broad and padded and you get lots of protection from the elements. There's also plenty of room to get your feet in a forward or back position, which means you can stay comfy for longer.

Suzuki have made the frame more rigid, slimmed down the bodywork, overall weight is reduced by 7kg and replaced the 14-inch front wheel with a 15-inch rim. It’s more stable at speed but still manoeuvrable around town.

The seven-step preload adjustable shock, which is unique in its class, will suit any type of rider and is great when carrying a pillion.

The Burgman does get a bit out of its comfort zone in fast, sweeping bends but that isn't really what it was built for so this isn't a big surprise. Line holding is helped by dragging the bar mounted rear brake through bends.

Brakes are efficient, without being grabby and the ABS system is lighter, which contributes to the overall weight reduction. Like other maxi-scooters it has a parking brake located on the dash.

To keep up with Euro 4 regulations, the Burgman 400’s 30.5bhp, 400cc single-cylinder motor has a new catalytic converter and iridium spark plug.

Throttle response is smooth and the power instant, which is useful when you are in need of an extra little punch. There’s an increase in low to mid-range torque, compared to its predecessor, so it’s quicker to get up to speed.

A Euro5 version is on the way for 2021, with deliveries starting in September.

The Burgman range has been around since 1998 so there should be no issues with reliability. However, previous models have suffered from problems with corrosion, so maintenance through winter months is key.

Our Suzuki Burgman 400 owners' reviews have a good score for reliability. There are a few tips there for luggage and equipment add-ons, too.

It does a claimed 70mpg, which gives it a theoretical tank range of in excess of 200 miles. An Eco Drive indicator reminds you when you are getting a little throttle happy, this could help to improve the fuel economy further and save you some cash.

Large capacity scooters may not have taken the UK by storm yet, but their popularity in Europe and other parts of the world means there are plenty to choose from.

The Yamaha XMAX 400 is Yamaha’s answer to middleweight scooting and it’s slightly lighter and sportier than the Burgman with stronger brakes. The seat is a little higher, though, which is worth bearing in mind if you’re shorter legged.

• Related: Suzuki Burgman 400 vs Yamaha XMAX 400

Honda’s Forza 300 represents great value for money but is seriously down on power, producing just 25bhp. You get great fuel economy, though and the Forza will still edge over 80mph which is plenty for UK roads.

A relative new kid on the block, BMW’s C400X offers a European alternative with a funky, modern design and a fancy digital dash.

Suzuki Burgman vs BMW C400X

We took the Burgman around the UK's toughest test route - the MCN250 - with the BMW C400X to see which would come out on top in the real world.

Despite their small engine size and presumed city-focus, both of these scooters shrugged off a very cold and tricky MCN250 with consummate ease. From motorway to fast A and B-roads through cities and villages, nothing fazed them and that speaks volumes for their practicality levels.

While the Burgman is certainly the more relaxed of the pair, making it more suited than the BMW for a commute that involves dual carriageways, for me the C400X is ultimately the better buy due to its agility, specification and accessories list.

The fact you can add the Connectivity dash makes it feel like a premium product with a longer lasting appeal than the Burgman, which although a solid performer is a little less inspiring or fun to ride as it feels a bit too workman-like in its attitude.

The Burgman 400's new slimmer rear end slightly compromises under-seat storage. There is enough space for a full faced lid and riding jacket. The two glove boxes will hold daily essentials and one has a 12v charging point.

It is fitted with an immobiliser and there is an entry point in the bodywork to fit a chain through and lock it up. It features traction control, keyless ignition, an immobiliser and a TFT instrument panel that displays fuel level, mpg, oil and coolant temperatures, and even the optimum time to change gear.

For 2021, the Burgman 400 will have all LED lighting including daytime running lights.

All you get offered as official extras on the Suzuki are heated grips, knuckle protectors, a topbox and a taller screen.