As a result of increasingly strict emission requirements, they were taken off the market in Europe more than 10 years ago, but next year the DR-Z400S and DR-Z400SM will make their comeback, but under the new names DR-Z4S and DR-Z4SM. As before, the S is the Dual Sport version of the two, with a 21″ front wheel and 18″ rear wheel aimed at off-road use, while the SM version is equipped with street-oriented 17″ street rubber.
Suzuki says it has developed the DR-Z4S according to the “Ready 4 Anything” concept, to express how versatile this model is. It is the successor to the DR-Z400S, which was launched in 2000 and was withdrawn from the market in Europe quite some time ago, but was still available in the rest of the world until 2019. According to Suzuki, the new DR-Z4S should not be as cutting-edge as the previous model.
The new DR-Z4SM clearly focuses more on street use and is, as mentioned, the successor to the DR-Z400SM. With 17-inch wheels and a lower, more forward seating position, this is a true Supermoto. And with a level of performance and freedom that takes every rider’s confidence to a higher level. This Supermoto is built to dominate on the street, with unprecedented drivability and plenty of driving pleasure. Otherwise, take another look at our test from 2005.
Just like the previous DR-Z400, the two DR-Z4 models are also powered by the same 398cc single-cylinder, but a version that has not only been thoroughly revised to meet Euro 5+ emissions requirements (including double spark plugs and fuel injection). ), but can also be equipped with ride-by-wire throttle technology and extensive electronics.
Lightweight titanium intake valves and hollow sodium-filled exhaust valves helped maximize combustion efficiency and power, according to Suzuki, as did the newly designed cylinder head. New camshaft profiles should have reduced exhaust emissions and increased torque. The result is an eager character of the engine, with strong torque at low speeds and a punch in the higher regions.
In addition, new piston and crankcase designs reduce mechanical losses by 20 percent. The adjustments that Suzuki has made to the single-cylinder have had a small impact on its performance. Suzuki now claims a top power of 38 hp at 8,000 rpm and a maximum torque of 37 Nm of torque at 6,500 rpm, which is a fraction less than the 40 hp @ 7,600 rpm and 39 Nm @ 6,600 rpm of the DR-Z400.
The fact that Suzuki has tackled matters thoroughly is also shown by the extensive electronics package with which both models are equipped. Now the usefulness of this for this type of power is up for debate, personally we do not see the advantage of it, but that has not stopped Suzuki from equipping the new DR-Z4 with SIRS, an abbreviation for the Suzuki Intelligent Ride System .
Both models have the SDMS Suzuki Drive Mode Selector with three riding modes (A, B and C), STCS Suzuki Traction Control System with positions 1, 2, G for off-road and Off, the Suzuki Easy Start System and adjustable ABS. In both models the ABS can be switched off on the rear wheel, with the DR-Z4S this can also be switched off on the front wheel.
Then the bicycle part. The geometry and seating position are aimed at optimal stability and control. For the DR-Z4S this means that the handles are placed slightly higher and slightly closer to the body, while the footpegs are further forward. The result is an upright riding position that makes exploring off-road trails easier. On the DR-4SM the seating position is more in an attack position and therefore ideal for use on asphalt.
Both models have a completely newly developed twin-spar steel tube frame that Suzuki says is stiff, strong and flexible enough to excel on rough surfaces. The lightweight aluminum subframe also provides solid support, while the specially shaped aluminum swingarm improves response. The curb weight of the DR-Z4S is 151 kg, the seat height is 920 mm. The DR-Z4SM weighs 154 kg ready to ride and has a seat height of 890 mm.
The DR-Z4S has a 21-inch front wheel and an 18-inch rear wheel with IRC GP-410 tires (80/100-21M/C front, 120/80-18M/C rear). Optimized for both off-road trails and on-road driving, these tires feature large central lugs that provide firm grip.
The DR-Z4SM is equipped with 17-inch front and rear rims with Dunlop SPORTMAX Q5A tires (120/70R17M/C front, 140/70R17M/C rear). These performance street tires feature an internal construction and tread designed exclusively for the DR-Z4SM. The tires also have a sporty long groove pattern that contributes to agile and sporty handling and provides firm grip, even in wet conditions.
Both models have fully adjustable KYB upside down front forks, but each with their own weights. For the DR-Z4S, suspension travel measures a generous 280mm at the front, while the rear monoshock offers 296mm of travel. The ground clearance is no less than 300 mm. For the DR-Z4SM, the ground clearance is 260 mm and the suspension travel at the front is 260 mm, at the rear it is 277 mm. Both the front and rear suspension offer the option to adjust the compression and rebound damping.
The styling of both models with a focus on ergonomics results from an evolution of performance and aesthetics. The motorcycles stand out because of the powerful horizontal line that runs from the front along the sides to the rear. Functional parts are clearly visible, which emphasizes the ergonomic design and increases the overall visual appeal. The minimalism is evident in the compact, bright LED projector headlight. The turn signals and rear light are also equipped with LED lighting.
An upright sitting position was the starting point for maximum control. The saddle is also narrow so that standing on the footrests does not cause any discomfort while riding on unpaved terrain. The conically shaped aluminum handlebar is light, strong and flexible. It is equipped with specifically profiled handles that provide a firm grip.
The mirrors have a cool parallelogram design. The fuel tank is compact and flat at the top. The capacity is 8.7 liters. Wide footrests provide firm support and grip. An aluminum protective plate on the bottom of the frame protects the engine block and gives it an extra cool appearance.
The cockpit includes an LCD display that is light, compact and remarkably easy to read. The display shows, among other things, speed, speed, acceleration, selected driving mode, selected traction control mode, fuel consumption, time and remaining tank capacity.
The market introduction of the Suzuki DR-Z4S and DR-Z4SM is expected in the second half of 2025. Prices are not yet known.
– Thanks for information from Motorfreaks.