The Bandit 400 is equipped with a highly rigid steel-tubed diamond frame. Exceeding the traditional expression of functional beauty, this model was designed under the key concept of “attractiveness” to express a playful spirit enhanced through voluminousness and and curvaceousness. The beauty of the model is highlighted especially through elements such as the fuel tank, fairings, and exhaust pipe. Another particular characteristic of the Bandit 400 is its wide range of highly refined components, including the handlebars, headlight, footpegs, instrument panel, mirrors, stainless steel muffler, and exhaust pipe. The engine combines a slingshot carburetor known for delivering sharp acceleration with tuning that emphasizes optimum performance in the low- and mid-rpm ranges, making the bike highly rideable even on city streets.

The Bandit 400V is equipped with a newly engineered 4-cylinder 400 cm³ engine featuring Variable Valve Control. This variable valve timing and lift mechanism electronically controls the valve opening timing and lift amount in tune with the engine speed, gear position, and throttle opening to realize an engine with superb handling from low to high rpms. The chassis features disc brakes and wide tires at both the front and rear to deliver stable cornering and riding performance. The anodized red front brake disc housing helps to project an even more muscular image.

An advance on the previous generation, the Bandit 400 and Bandit 400V feature unique frame designs with flowing and smooth curves extending from the fuel tank to the seat fairing and rear combination lights. A beautifully rounded headlight and a cockpit that resembles artillery shells help to create a tightly focused front shape. The engine in the Bandit 400V uses the variable valve control (VC) system adopted by Suzuki since 1991 to balance both controllability at high revs and powerful torque in the low- to mid-rpm range. The chassis includes features such as radial tires and an aluminum swingarm for further weight reduction and enhanced sporty performance. Improved maneuverability was achieved by optimizing the seat height, turning angle of the handlebars, and riding position.

The chassis of the GSR400 uses a newly developed, lightweight, highly rigid, and refined twin-beam aluminum diecast frame. The elegant styling of the GSR400 is a perfect match for its power and grace, combining a newly designed liquid-cooled 4-cylinder DOHC engine with a fuel injection system equipped with the first 32-bit electric control module (ECM) in the 400 cm³ street bike class and coated cylinders. The GSR400 delivers dynamic and easy-to-handle performance from city streets to winding roads thanks to the unique Suzuki Dual Throttle Valve (SDTV) system, which maintains the optimum combustion conditions for the situation, while ensuring powerful torque from low to high speeds and excellent throttle response.