Soon after the original DR-Z400S debuted in 2000, it established itself as a popular model, earning high acclaim for delivering precise, nimble handling, easy maneuverability and goanywhere performance. By squeezing the power and torque of a compact liquid-cooled DOHC, 398cm3 4-stroke engine into a light, agile chassis, the DR-Z400S helped lay the foundation for modern dual sport riding. Highly capable and fun to ride, it won the hearts of off-road enthusiasts, both for use in navigating forest trails, fire roads or open country, and for riding around town. With the introduction of the DR-Z400SM in 2005, Suzuki expanded the range to include a new street-tuned offering that was fun to ride and ready to take on any street or supermoto track.
The DR-Z4S/SM Design Concept is; “THE AUTHENTIC LEADING EDGE”
The mission was to embody the evolution of DR-Z4S/SM performance and presence. This called for the creation of fresh new styling with aggressive flair worthy of a new era of dualsport and supermoto motorcycle design.
The two keywords “Evolution” and “Serious Gear” symbolized development of the new styling:
“Evolution” — The new DR-Z4S/SM marks a giant leap forward in styling, with a new design that emphasizes agile performance and represents the model’s future direction. Under the banner of creating a “linear connection” from front to rear, we focused on establishing a bold horizontal line along the sides that cuts right from the front fender through to the tail. “Serious Gear” — This model’s strong “Serious gear” image becomes a major point of appeal for the styling. Ergonomics was the driving force behind every aspect of the design. By shaving away all excess elements, Suzuki visually express the functionality of the DR-Z4S/SM and expose its authentic appeal. For example, with the change to LED lighting, Suzuki intentionally opted for a minimalistic form that conveys the spartan appeal of a serious piece of equipment created to perform optimally.
The design sketch below was created to apply to both new models, so was intentionally rendered without clearly showing the wheels and tires since they differ in appearance.
Engine features:
- Thoroughly updated 398cm3 single-cylinder four-valve DOHC engine delivers smooth, controllable power from low rpm through to the high end of its operating range.
- New fuel injection system features easier starts, especially when the engine is cold, and employs 10-hole injectors that maximize fuel atomization for better combustion efficiency and lower fuel consumption.
- By achieving the ideal fuel-air ratio, the engine features satisfying response as the rider begins to open the throttle.
- The exhaust system features a dual-stage catalytic converter* that helps satisfy Euro 5+emissions standards. (*Not available in some markets.)
- The new exhaust pipe complies with noise regulations and features a double-wall design that helps protect the rider’s legs from extreme heat, while also contributing to a slim body profile.
- Dual spark plugs help maximize combustion efficiency and performance across the engine’s operating range
- Light weight titanium intake valves and hollow sodium-filled exhaust valves contribute to maximizing combustion efficiency and performance.
- New 42mm bore electronic-controlled throttle body helps improve output and deliver faithful response to throttle action.
- Suzuki Clutch Assist System (SCAS) provides positive clutch engagement both on and off the road, and provides smoother deceleration and gear changes.
- New radiator with larger fan diameter improves cooling.
- New cam profiles contribute to greater low-end torque output, low fuel consumption and Euro 5+ emissions standard compliance.
- Revised air cleaner box and inlet tube design helps reduce resistance, improving low-end torque production and power output.
- New piston design helps achieve smoother engine operation while reducing mechanical loss.
Chassis features:
- New pipe steel twin-spar frame remains plenty capable of withstanding rough conditions, while also contributing to nimble handling that responds faithfully to the rider’s will.
- The lightweight aluminum seat rails are built to support the rider, with plenty of strength to handle even rough terrain.
- Handling is precise and the DR-Z4S/SM is easy to maneuver, thanks in part to the long suspension travel and optimized damping characteristics.
- Both models employ long-travel, adjustable KYB inverted front forks and a fully adjustable KYB rear suspension.
- The DR-Z4S is fitted with IRC dual purpose tires that provide optimum traction both on and off the road.
- The DR-Z4SM employs 17-inch Dunlop radial tires that provide optimum on-road performance.
- Front and rear disc brakes provide sure and stable stopping power.
- Tapered aluminum handlebars provide a solid grip and help absorb shocks on rough surfaces.
- Half-waffle grips provide optimal off-road throttle control and comfort.
- Compact, lightweight ABS unit contributes to nimble handling
- Seat width is optimized to improve rider comfort.
- A standard-equipment aluminum under cover protects the engine while emphasizing the styling’s tough image.
- Wider footpegs provide great control when negotiating trails, whether standing or sitting.
- The fuel tank’s new compact, light-weight design retains a capacity of 8.7 liters.
- The mirrors adopt a new tough-looking parallelogram design.
Purpose-fit wire-spoked wheel and tires
The DR-Z4S rides on wire-spoked wheels. The 21-inch front wheel and 18-inch rear wheel are shod with IRC GP-410 dual purpose tube-type tires (80/100-21M/C at the front; 120/80-18M/C at the rear) that feature an interior structure custom-engineered exclusively for the DR-Z4S.
Built to perform optimally, whether negotiating off-road trails or riding on roads, these tires feature chunky center blocks that provide solid grip and contribute to the model’s outstanding controllability.
To maximize the model’s on-road and supermoto track potential, the DR-Z4SM rides on 17-inch rims front and rear, and the wheels are shod with Dunlop SPORTMAX Q5A tires, (120/70R17M/C at the front; 140/70R17M/C at the rear). Both front and rear tires use a silica compound, which provides both dry and wet grip, as well as excellent reinforcement for longer life. These performance street tires feature an internal construction and profile that is engineered exclusively for the DR-Z4SM. The tires also feature an aggressive long groove pattern new for 2024 that contributes to nimble, sporty handling and provides solid grip, even in wet conditions.
