New Suzuki DR-Z4S and DR-Z4SM Promises to Make “Your World” More Fun

Nearly 25 years on from its inception, Suzuki’s supermoto range is getting a hefty update for 2025 with a new DR-Z4S and DR-Z4SM which is slightly more tailored towards the street.

Both are dual sport supermoto machines which feature the same, but brand-new 398cc, single-cylinder, liquid cooled, DOHC four-stroke engine. Designed to meet EuroB standards, the engine is an evolution of the previous generation power unit used by the DR-Z400.

Changes to the engine compared to the DR-Z400 are everywhere you look, starting with the new lightweight titanium intake valves and hollow, sodium-filled exhaust valves and new cam profiles and piston. A new cylinder head is equipped with twin spark plugs, there are new crankcases, and a new slipper clutch with Suzuki’s Clutch Assist System.

The new fuelling system features a ride-by-wire, 42mm bore, electronic throttle body and a 10-hole fuel injector. There’s a new air box, and a new exhaust. The result means a broader spread of power across the rev range, stronger drive, a direct, linear throttle response, and improved fuel economy.

The engine for both the DR-Z4S and DR-Z4SM produces 37.4bhp at 8000rpm and 27.2Ib ft of torque at 6500rpm. Both motorcycles also make just over 80 miles to the gallon.

For the new 2025 models an updated Suzuki Drive Mode Selector (SDMS) means riders can choose from three riding modes. Each mode reaches the same peak power output, with A being the most direct and able to deliver the full amount of low-down torque available from the 398cc single-cylinder engine.

Modes B and C are softer which allows riders to reduce the initial power delivery for slippery or low grip conditions. There are two standard traction control modes on both bikes, with each equipped with its own specific G (gravel) mode. The G mode’s level intervention has been set lower than the traction control system’s other two standard modes, and the maximum level of intervention is also set lower.

The DR-Z4S is the slightly more off-road of the two models and has received an updated version of the system that features on the Strom 1050DE and V-Strom 800DE Adventure models. The DR-Z4SM is a bit more tailored towards flat-dirt surfaces, while allowing a little more slip tolerance than on the V-Strom DEs.

Suzuki adds new chassis to the mix

Showing no sign of slowing down the development of its supermoto range, Suzuki has also introduced a new chassis on both bikes. A twin-spar steel frame has been developed for the new DR-Z4S and DR-Z4SM. It is mated to a new aluminium subframe and an aluminium swingarm. Similar to the engine, it was constructed to build on the previous model’s reputation for precise, agile handling and easy manoeuvrability.

Long-travel suspension on both the DR-Z4S and DR-Z4SM comes from KYB. The dimensions include 280mm of front fork travel and 296mm of rear wheel travel on the DR-Z4S, while the DR-Z4SM has 260mm of front suspension travel and 277mm of rear wheel travel.

Both have compression and rebound damping adjustment at the front and rear. Preload adjustment is also found on the rear shock. The wheels are wire-spoked on both. The DR-Z4S is fitted with a 21-inch front and an 18-inch on the rear, compared to the 17-inch rims on the DR-Z4SM.

The DR-Z4S is available in Suzuki’s signature off-road Champion Yellow, and Solid Iron Grey, both of which include black rims. The DR-Z4SM features a new blue/grey colour scheme, dubbed Sky Grey, plus a Solid Special White, equipped with blue rims.

The new electrical features include a new LED headlight that incorporates both the high and low beam into one bright projector module, front and rear LED indicators, new LED rear combination light and licence plate light feature and handlebar switches are intuitive and easy to operate.

Pricing for the new supermoto bikes will be confirmed in the new year and availability is expected in the summer of 2025.

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