It has been 24 years since Suzuki first introduced the DR-Z400S street-legal enduro model. A supermoto version of the bike came out a few years later. Both bikes are clearly a bit long in the tooth.
Yesterday, Suzuki replaced the older models with the 2025 DR-Z4S and DR-Z4SM, both of which feature substantial changes, if not ground-up redesigns. New frames, suspension and “thoroughly updated” 398cc single-cylinder engine highlight the changes.
Here is the press release from Suzuki:
Brea, CA – (November 5, 2024) – Get ready to experience the next generation of Suzuki DualSport and SuperMoto motorcycles with the all-new 2025 Suzuki DR-Z4S and DR-Z4SM. Building on the exceptional success and legacy of Suzuki’s renowned DR-Z series, the all-new DR-Z4S and DR-Z4SM are engineered to deliver a perfect blend of performance, versatility, and modern technology.
Introduced in 2000, Suzuki’s DR-Z400S earned acclaim for delivering precise, nimble handling, easy maneuverability, and ultra-reliable performance. Highly capable and fun to ride, it won the hearts of riders who desired a street legal motorcycle that performed exceptionally well off-road, too. With the addition of the DR-Z400SM in 2005, Suzuki expanded the range to include a SuperMoto version that gave riders even more choice. For 2025, Suzuki is thrilled to introduce two new models that proudly tap into the DR-Z legacy.
The Suzuki DR-Z4S and DR-Z4SM feature an all-new steel twin-spar frame combined with an advanced aluminum subframe, and a lightweight aluminum swingarm for improved handling performance. They also feature a completely updated 398cc single-cylinder engine, now equipped with electronic fuel injection and the latest Suzuki Ride-By-Wire throttle body for smooth and precise power delivery.
Both new models feature the Suzuki Intelligent Ride System (S.I.R.S.), which provide advanced riding features like the three-mode Suzuki Drive Mode Selector (SDMS), a multi-mode Traction Control System with a dedicated Gravel (G) mode, for even more off-road fun. Also included on both machines is an Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS)** with selectable full or rear-only ABS-off modes, depending on the model.
Adding to the refined handling delivered by the all-new frame and aluminum sub-frame, are new KYB fully adjustable suspension components front and rear, and new performance-driven, model specific tires for solid riding confidence. Wrap it all up in modern motocross-styled bodywork, sleek LED lighting, and fresh new colors and the DR-Z4S and DR-Z4SM are ready to conquer the trail or street like never before.
Key DR-Z4S/SM Features:
- New twin-spar steel frame and aluminum subframe
- New long-travel adjustable KYB inverted forks and fully adjustable KYB rear suspension
- New Suzuki Intelligent Ride System (S.I.R.S) suite including:
- Three-mode Suzuki Drive Mode Selector (SDMS)
- Four-mode Suzuki Traction Control System* (STCS)
- ABS** (Antilock Brake System) with switchable Rear ABS OFF (DR-Z4SM) and Front & Rear ABS OFF modes (DR-Z4S)
- Suzuki Easy Start System
- Thoroughly updated 398cc single-cylinder four-valve DOHC engine with:
- Electronic Fuel Injection
- Ride-by-Wire 42mm electronically controlled throttle bodies
- 10-hole injectors
- New higher-lift cam profile and new piston design
- New titanium intake valves and hollow, sodium-filled exhaust valves
- Now features Suzuki’s Dual Spark Technology with two iridium spark plugs
- Suzuki Clutch Assist System (SCAS)
- All LED lighting, including new bifunctional LED headlight
- New LCD instrument panel
- New air cleaner box and inlet tube design with easy filter access
- New compact and lightweight fuel tank
- New radiator with larger diameter cooling fan
- New ergonomics including new: aluminum tapered handlebars, wider footpegs, and redesigned seat.
- New exhaust with slim body profile and double-wall design
2025 DR-Z4S MSRP TBA
FEATURES
All-New Frame and Subframe
New twin-spar steel frame and lightweight aluminum sub-frame give exceptional torsional rigidity with minimal weight. Lightweight aluminum swingarm helps improve tracking and rear suspension response.
New KYB Suspension
KYB long stroke inverted cartridge-style fork with 11.0 in. (280 mm) of travel has adjustable compression and rebound damping force for smooth performance on all types of on- and off-road terrain. New, rear KYB shock absorber has 11.6 in. (296 mm) of rear wheel travel with spring preload plus both compression and rebound damping force adjustments, and connects to a new, lightweight aluminum swingarm through a progressive linkage system.
Thoroughly revised 398cc engine
The DR-Z4S is powered by a thoroughly updated 398cc single-cylinder four-valve DOHC engine that delivers a smooth, controllable spread of torque from low RPM up through peak power. The redesigned cylinder head has optimized shapes for the intake port, intake valve boundary, and a smooth, flat combustion chamber that produces better combustion to provide consistent power under low loads with strong power output under heavier loads. The DOHC cylinder head contains a pair of lightweight titanium intake valves and a pair of hollow, sodium filled exhaust valves that help maximize combustion efficiency and performance.
Suzuki Intelligent Ride System (S.I.R.S.)
A collection of advanced electronic rider assists systems. The new DR-Z4S adopts Suzuki Drive Mode Selector (SDMS), the Suzuki Traction Control System (STSC), Ride-by-Wire Electronic Throttle System, switchable ABS, and the Suzuki Easy Start System.
- Suzuki Drive Mode Selector (SDMS) provides the DR-Z4S rider with a choice of three different engine power output characteristics (modes). Working in concert with the Traction Control System*, SDMS permits peak power in each mode while changing the nature of the power delivery.
- Suzuki Traction Control System (STCS) enables the rider to better control the bike in diverse and varying conditions. The rider can select from two modes or a custom-tuned G (Gravel) mode setting that helps the rider maximize off-road performance. Experienced riders can turn the system off entirely and then rely on their skills rather than take advantage of the assistance offered by STCS’s three mode settings.
- ABS Equipped with a compact, yet effective Bosch-supplied ABS control and is the first Suzuki production motorcycle with an ABS system with a Front & Rear ABS OFF mode that will deactivate the ABS function for both wheels. The DR-Z4S also offers Rear ABS OFF mode, which switches off just the rear wheel ABS function.
New LCD Instrument Panel
The DR-Z4S has a newly designed LCD instrument panel that is light and compact, with a straightforward, legible display. This panel not only supplies critical real-time operating status information, but also keeps the rider aware of the settings for the bike’s respective systems.
LED Lighting
All of the DR-Z4S’ lighting is new, low-draw LED type, including the turn signals (white lenses with amber illumination), the taillight, and license plate illumination light. The new bifunction LED headlight is a unique design that incorporates both the high- and low-beam functions into one, bright projector module
Wheels and Tires
Spoke-style 21-inch front and 18-inch rear wheels with blacked-out aluminum rims are fitted with IRC GP-410 dual-purpose, tube-type tires. Built to perform optimally, whether negotiating off-road trails or riding on roads, these tires feature large center blocks that help provide a solid grip and contribute to the model’s outstanding dirt capability.
New Slim Fuel Tank
The fuel tank is a new, flush lightweight design. Fuel capacity is 2.3 US gal. (8.7 L)
New air cleaner box and inlet tube
Designed to improve intake air flow and generate sharp throttle response with powerful low-speed torque. The left side body cover has a quick-release fastener, and swings open like a door, retaining the popular, easy access to the air filter element.
Electronic Fuel injection
Newly equipped with Electronic Fuel Injection with Ride-by-Wire throttle body system, the feeds the engine through an electronically controlled throttle body with a 42 mm bore and a 10-hole injector.
2025 DR-Z4SM MSRP TBA
DR-Z4SM FEATURES
New Suspension
New KYB long stroke inverted cartridge-style fork with 10.2 in. (260mm) of travel has adjustable compression and rebound damping force for smooth performance on all types of on- and off-road terrain. New, rear KYB shock absorber has 10.9 in. (277 mm) of rear wheel travel with spring preload plus both compression and rebound damping force adjustments, and connects to a new, lightweight aluminum swingarm through a progressive linkage system.
Wheels and Tires
Equipped with spoke-style 17-inch front and rear wheels with blacked-out aluminum rims fitted with Dunlop SPORTMAX Q5A sportbike tires.
Stopping Power
DR-Z4SM is equipped with a large diameter 310mm front rotor
Anti-lock Brake System**
Newly equipped with a compact, yet effective Bosch-supplied ABS control system. The DR-Z4SM also offers Rear ABS OFF mode, which switches off just the rear wheel ABS.
Suzuki Clutch Assist System (SCAS)
This system works like a slipper clutch by allowing a small amount of clutch slip under deceleration for smoother downshifts. The SCAS also works as an assist clutch, increasing plate pressure under acceleration, but always keeps the clutch lever’s pull light and precise. This large-diameter, wet, multi-plate clutch uses a precise cable-activated release, providing the rider with a light pull and a superb friction-point feel.
New Seat
The seat width has been optimized to improve comfort when riding. Its durable design supports the rider well when shifting body weight.
Product Availability / Pricing
More information to follow regarding pricing and product availability timing.
A wide variety of accessories for the DR-Z4S and DR-Z4SM will be available.
Key accessories include:
Skid Plate
Knuckle Covers
Rear Rack
Low Seat
Suzuki Genuine Accessories for 2025 Suzuki motorcycles, scooters and ATVs are available at Suzukicycles.com and include a wide selection of accessories, collectibles, service, and maintenance parts, ECSTAR Oils and Lubricants and Suzuki apparel.
**Depending on road surface conditions, such as wet, loose, or uneven roads, braking distance for an ABS-equipped vehicle may be longer than for a vehicle not equipped with ABS. ABS cannot prevent wheel skidding caused by braking while cornering. Please drive carefully and do not overly rely on ABS.
***Suzuki’s fuel economy estimates are based on EPA exhaust emission measurement tests conducted by Suzuki and are intended for comparison purposes only. Your actual mileage may vary depending on how you ride and maintain your vehicle, road and driving conditions, tire pressure, engine break-in, accessories, cargo, rider and passenger weight, and other factors.
SUZUKI MOTOR CORPORATION reserves the right to add any improvement to change the design or to discontinue any Suzuki Genuine Accessories at any time without notice. Some Suzuki Genuine Accessories might not be compatible with local standards or statutory requirements. Please check with your local AUTHORIZED SUZUKI DEALER for details at the time of ordering.
Specifications, appearances, equipment, color, features, materials and other items of “SUZUKI” products shown are subject to change by manufacturer at any time without notice.
Suzuki, the “S” logo, and Suzuki model and product names are Suzuki Trademarks or ®. © 2024 Suzuki Motor USA, LLC.
How many gears in gearbox? The 5 speed in the prev. generation was limiting for highway riding
Post