Whether or not you’re a seasoned off-road rider, or simply getting your enduro boots soiled for the primary time, chances are high you’ll fall in love with the brand new Suzuki DR-Z4S. For those who’ve ever ridden the unique Suzuki DR-Z400, what it’s: no-frills reliability, utilitarian, and bridges the hole on roads between path sections. Now, Suzuki introduces the fashionable iteration, the all-new 2025 Suzuki DR-Z4S. This dual-sport isn’t simply revamped, it’s thoughtfully modernized with tech, consolation, and approachability in thoughts. And it’s in a way more trendy, sleeker look.
And sure—it’s much more able to get soiled–and take you with it.
The brand new Suzuki DR-Z4S is a modernized improve to its predecessor. With a smooth new look and enhanced expertise, this class-of-its-own dual-sport is able to sort out any terrain and every little thing in between.
I simply returned from a multi-day trip on the brand new Suzuki DR-Z4S with a face filled with path mud and an enormous grin to match. Gasoline-injected, electronically outfitted, and confidence-inspiring in each terrain, this bike is a blast to trip. And the most effective half is you don’t have to be an knowledgeable to take pleasure in it.
First Impressions: Light-weight Really feel, Severe Versatility
I went into this check pondering “new tech” would possibly imply one other heavy, difficult, utilitarian twin sport motorbike. Not the case. Suzuki’s DR-Z4S nonetheless seems like a real twin sport bike—rugged and cross-capable. But it surely now affords smoother and peppier energy supply with rider-friendly options that make transitioning from path to pavement really feel seamless. Even higher? It’s enjoyable to trip, with torquey energy throughout the vary and a balanced chassis that evokes confidence, whether or not you’re standing on the pegs or cruising a twisty mountain street.
It’s true the brand new DR-Z4S is heavier than its predecessor—16 kilos—because of the ABS and emissions methods. However you received’t imagine it. The burden truly makes the bike really feel extra planted at increased street speeds. With the straightforward (and adaptable) energy supply, and upgraded suspension, the bike feels as gentle as a plateless dirtbike.
Tech That Works With You
Suzuki’s new Clever Experience System (S.I.R.S.) brings racetrack tech to the dual-sport world, and it’s not simply bells and whistles—it’s helpful. Experience modes and traction management may be fine-tuned to match your ability stage and terrain, serving to you trip extra confidently and comfortably. Right here’s a breakdown of the multi-level system:
Experience Modes (SDMS)
A Mode: Most energy—splendid for expert riders or technical terrain.
B Mode: Balanced response for combined using or average off-road.
C Mode: Mild throttle for studying, free surfaces, or constructing confidence.
Traction Management (STCS): 4 settings, together with Gravel Mode, make it simpler to handle varied sketchy surfaces.
Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS): Switchable rear and entrance choices allow you to flip off ABS as wanted for gravel street or path using.
The brand new LCD show is clear and simple to learn. It reveals solely the vital components: velocity, gear place, gasoline stage, trip mode, and traction management setting. Your trip modes are just below your thumb. After a fast primer I discover it simple to shortly transition from avenue to path to gravel street and again.
You’ll be able to swap modes shortly—even whereas using—with an intuitive toggle system. The tech is easy to make use of, even with gloves on. For newer riders or these getting again into dual-sport, these options take the intimidation issue down a notch with out sacrificing functionality. This makes the DR-Z4S nice for throughout use from commuting to using highways to the paths, to tackling even essentially the most technical singletrack.
Gasoline Injection for Simple Begins and Easy EnergyThe DR-Z lastly says goodbye to its carbureted previous. With digital gasoline injection (EFI), chilly begins are a breeze (howdy, one-tap begin!), and altitude adjustments don’t faze it.
The throttle response is clean and predictable—splendid for every little thing from rocky climbs to regular freeway cruising.
Tip-Overs Occur—And The DR-Z4S Will get It
We’ve all been there: that awkward hill stall or a tip-over in free grime. Suzuki has added a wise security characteristic—an eight-second restart delay—to guard the engine and assist the bike reset after a fall. Simply preserve the ignition on, look ahead to it to recalibrate, and also you’re again within the saddle. Whereas eight seconds would possibly really feel lengthy once you’re midway up a climb, it’s a small value to pay for peace of thoughts and long-term reliability.
On the Path and On the Highway: A True 50/50 Bike
The DR-Z4S impresses me off-road with its nimble really feel, plush absolutely adjustable KYB suspension, and upgraded torque. It handles singletrack climbs and technical sections with out drama. And once I hit pavement, it’s an gratifying trip—even at freeway speeds.
After rolling off the pavement and altering the settings, the DR-Z4S is prepared for the tightest single observe. The simple transition is as spectacular because the bike’s skill to go from freeway cruising to mud and rocks.
Seat Peak: Tall, However Not a Deal-Breaker
At 36.2 inches, the inventory seat is tall, and I couldn’t get even a toe down. However the accent Low Seat possibility drops about 1.2 inches.
My 5-foot-4-inch peak means the inventory seat is a no-go. However the accent low seat gave me a “strong” toe plant–which I’m used to on off-road succesful bikes. Fortunately the brand new seat/tank junction is slender which additionally helps with foot plant.
Right here you possibly can see the way in which the low seat (entrance) has been carved out from the inventory seat (rear). The low seat additionally incorporates a special foam density for some added consolation.
Bonus: the brand new trip place is barely up to date for higher consolation throughout lengthy rides whereas nonetheless retaining nice off-road management. The broader footpegs with detachable rubber inserts supply offroad grip or on-road consolation relying in your desire.
Brakes, Suspension and Tires: Constructed to Experience Arduous
The DR-Z4S is constructed to deal with severe terrain. It options absolutely adjustable KYB suspension with each high- and low-speed compression damping, permitting riders to fine-tune the trip for various situations.
Braking energy has been upgraded with bigger diameter entrance and rear discs, providing improved stopping efficiency on and off the street. The switchable ABS is a welcome addition, giving riders the flexibility to disable it when hitting the paths the place extra braking management is required.
The bike rolls on a 21-inch entrance and 18-inch rear wheel setup, outfitted with IRC GP-410 dual-purpose tires which might be designed for combined using. Whereas they’re tremendous for simple on- and off-road using, extra aggressive grime riders will wish to swap to true knobbies.
Nonetheless a 5-Pace, However Improved
No, it’s not a six-speed as many present DR-Z riders have wished for. And sure, I sometimes attain for a phantom sixth gear on the freeway. However thanks to raised torque and well-spaced gearing, it performs effectively even with out the extra gear. It cruises comfortably at 60–65 mph and even increased speeds with no drama.
Equipment That Matter
In my thoughts, each motorbike supposed to be taken off-road ought to include some type of handguards. The DR-Z4S doesn’t include them, however Suzuki does supply handguards in its array of equipment for the DR-Z4S.
Different key dual-sport equipment supplied embrace: racks, skid plates, brake disc covers, axle sliders, an influence socket, and the low seat talked about beforehand.
The DR-Z4S comes with some safety for the beneath aspect, however offroaders are going to wish to improve to extra safety for the engine, pipes, and different simply broken bike components.
The Backside Line: Is the DR-Z4S Proper for You?
At $8,999, the 2025 DR-Z4S prices greater than the outgoing mannequin, however the upgrades are price each penny. This bike delivers the place it counts—trendy tech, real-world usability, and off-road prowess wrapped in a smooth, approachable bundle.
For riders seeking to stage up from an entry-level dual-sport, or these downsizing from a heavier ADV bike, the DR-Z4S hits that uncommon center floor. It’s succesful, customizable, and confidence-building—with out sacrificing the grit we crave when the street ends and the path begins.
Specs At A Look: Suzuki DR-Z4S
Engine measurement: 398cc Seat Peak: 36.2 inches (35 inches with accent low seat)Gasoline Capability: 2.3 gallonsMoist Weight: 333 kilosMSRP: $8,9992025 Colours: Champion Yellow No. 2/Stable Particular White No. 2 bodywork, Stable Iron Grey
WRN Advice
The DR-Z4S is the sort of dual-sport bike that grows with you. The modes allow you to begin out simple on the grime or on the road. And whether or not you’re a seasoned avenue rider or off-roader, it’s able to ramp as much as the place you’re—get you on the market the place you wish to go.
Go to SuzukiCycles.com for extra info.
