2025 Suzuki DR-Z4SM Review

As an avid motorcycle enthusiast, I couldn’t wait to take a closer look at Suzuki’s new DR-Z4SM. This 2025 model brings back the spirit of the old DR-Z400SM but adds a modern twist. In this review, we’ll break down what makes the DR-Z4SM special—from its key specs and features to how it performs in real-world riding. We’ll cover handling, comfort, and day-to-day usability before wrapping up with a look at its strengths, weaknesses, and whether it’s worth considering for riders seeking an agile supermoto experience.

Suzuki DR-Z4SM Model Overview

The 2025 Suzuki DR-Z4SM goes on sale in the U.S. with an MSRP of about $8,999 (plus $600 destination). It comes in two color schemes—Sky Gray or Solid Special White No. 2—and features a new slim fuel tank (2.3 gal/8.7 L) along with a high-mount LED headlight that give it a sharp, minimalist look.

Engine and Performance

The DR-Z4SM is powered by a 398cc liquid-cooled single-cylinder DOHC engine (four valves, dual iridium plugs) that produces roughly 37–38 hp (27–28 lb-ft torque) in A2-restricted trim. This is essentially the same displacement as the old DR-Z400SM, but Suzuki heavily revised the internals: ~80% of components are new.

Upgrades include a redesigned cylinder head with optimized intake ports, titanium intake valves, hollow sodium-filled exhaust valves, and a new piston/crankcase to reduce mechanical loss.

Crucially, the DR-Z4SM gains electronic fuel injection and 42mm ride-by-wire throttle (10-hole injector). The result is smoother throttle response, better low-end torque, and cleaner emissions.

We can even pick between three engine maps using Suzuki’s Drive Mode Selector to make the throttle feel sharper or more mellow, depending on how we want to ride. All of this makes the DR-Z4SM really smooth and controllable from low revs up to the top.

The new engine “boosts low-down torque,” which makes city riding way more relaxed. Peak power isn’t much higher than before, so it’s not a rocket on the highway, but the low-to-mid range is much more usable.

The exhaust is short and compact, keeping weight and heat centralized, and the bike starts up instantly thanks to a large electric starter and Suzuki Easy Start. Downshifts are also nice and smooth with the slipper clutch and Suzuki Clutch Assist System.

That said, don’t expect it to shine on long freeway runs. With only five gears and tall ratios, it starts to feel buzzy above 60 mph.

Honestly, a sixth gear would make highway riding a lot nicer, but Suzuki stuck with just five to keep the weight down. Even so, the throttle feels really smooth and easy to control—it’s soft and gentle, which is perfect if you’re a newer rider.

If you’re more experienced, you might notice the top-end punch is a bit limited, but the revised fueling and cam setup make it way easier to ride at low speeds compared to the old model.

Chassis, Suspension and Handling

Suzuki DR-Z4SM review

The DR-Z4SM’s chassis is all-new. Gone is the old single-cradle frame; in its place is a twin-spar steel frame with an aluminum subframe. Suzuki claims this frame is about 9.3% more torsionally rigid than before.

The engine is now a stressed part of the frame, improving balance and making the bike feel compact. The rear swingarm is also new: it’s aluminum (up from steel) and features a progressive linkage.

Overall, the DR-Z4SM weighs around 154 kg (340 lbs) curb, which is roughly 16 lbs heavier than the outgoing DR-Z400SM due mostly to added electronics and a sturdier build.

Front suspension is a 46 mm KYB inverted fork with 10.2 inches (260 mm) travel. It’s fully adjustable for compression and rebound.

The rear shock is also KYB, fully adjustable for preload, compression, and rebound, with 10.9 inches (277 mm) travel.

Compared to the old DR-Z400SM’s parts, which felt softer and weren’t adjustable, I noticed the new KYB suspension has more travel and adjustability. Right out of the factory, it feels really soft, though, so I’d suggest stiffening the spring preload if you want a more spirited ride.

With stock settings the bike is very forgiving on bumps, but it responds well when firmed up, indicating high-quality suspension that can handle track use.

The DR-Z4SM’s wheelbase is relatively short (1,465 mm), and rake/trail are tuned for quick steering, giving the bike a flickable, mini-bike feel.

Braking and tires are upgraded to match the sporty intent. Up front is a 310 mm floating disc gripped by a two-piston Nissin caliper; the rear has a 240 mm disc with a single-piston caliper. Both are linked to a Bosch ABS system (with switchable rear-wheel-only mode for track use).

We find the brakes strong and confidence-inspiring, with plenty of bite and good feel.

Notably, Suzuki fits Dunlop Sportmax Q5A 17-inch tires front and rear (sizes 120/70-17 front, 140/70-17 rear). These sportbike-style tires provide superb grip on asphalt, greatly improving cornering traction.

The Dunlops provide good grip while remaining progressive, offering clear feedback and allowing the rider to use the lean angle with confidence.

Electronics and Features

Electronics & Features

• Suzuki Intelligent Ride System (S.I.R.S.) includes:
  • Drive Mode Selector (SDMS) with 3 engine maps: A (aggressive), B (medium), C (gentle)
  • Traction Control System (STCS) with 4 modes: Low, Mid, High, and G (Gravel for loose surfaces)
• ABS system:
  • Rear ABS switchable for stunts or track use
  • Front ABS always on
• Easy Start: one-button engine start
• LCD dash: shows gear position, fuel level, two trip meters, and active S.I.R.S. mode
  • Instruments are simple and functional (no TFT or Bluetooth)

Lighting

• Full LED setup:
  • Compact bi-function LED headlight (high/low in one projector)
  • Sleek LED taillight
  • LED turn signals
• Minimalist design for weight saving and aggressive look

Ergonomics & Controls

• Handlebars: tapered aluminum, wider than before, half-waffle grips for durability and vibration damping
• Riding position: upright and neutral
• New bars set ~20 mm further back than old SM
• Seat height: 35″ (890 mm), slightly reshaped and flatter for comfort
• Footpegs: wide, sturdy aluminum for better control

motorcycle helmet communication system

Updates from the DR-Z400SM

Test Ride Impressions

Suzuki DR-Z4SM on road

Ease of Riding (Beginners)

From my experience, the DR-Z4SM feels very user-friendly. At around 154 kg, the chassis is light and agile, which makes low-speed riding and U-turns almost effortless.

It’s a fun bike for short trips and gives just enough performance that riders of any skill level can enjoy it. The throttle response is smooth and predictable, especially in Mode C, and the EFI keeps the power delivery consistent.

I also like that there are three ride modes, so you can adjust how sharp the throttle feels, and the traction control plus ABS add an extra layer of safety.

Overall, I think the DR-Z4SM is confidence-inspiring and very forgiving, which makes it a great option for new riders.

Performance and Speed (Experienced riders)

From my perspective, the DR-Z4SM really shines in the city and on twisty backroads. The chassis is light and agile, the suspension is soft enough to soak up bumps, and the narrow profile makes it easy to maneuver.

I find the front end light and fun in corners, and the Dunlop tires give me plenty of feedback and confidence to lean the bike. The low-end torque is strong enough that I don’t often need to rev past 5–6k rpm, and the slipper clutch makes downshifts very smooth. The brakes also feel strong enough for aggressive cornering.

On the highway though, I think the bike feels a bit limited. Without a sixth gear, the engine revs quite high once you’re over about 60 mph, and the vibration through the bars makes it feel busy.

The motor has good punch down low, but the top-end power runs out quickly, which makes long straights or motorway riding less enjoyable. For me, the 5-speed gearbox is the main drawback compared to other bikes in this class.

Comfort & Ergonomics

The DR-Z4SM’s upright riding position feels like a middle ground between a dirt bike and a street bike. It works well for short commutes and twisty canyon runs.

At 35″, the seat height is a bit tall, so very short riders might struggle, but for me, the leg position feels natural, and the wide handlebars are comfortable. The seat has new foam and a slightly different shape, but honestly, it’s still pretty firm, and I wouldn’t call it comfortable for long-distance riding.

For me, this bike is at its best during short, fun rides—popping wheelies or carving turns—rather than hours on the highway. And of course, there’s basically no wind protection, so long freeway rides get tiring pretty quickly.

Instrumentation and Ride Aids

From my point of view, the electronics on the DR-Z4SM are nice to have, but they feel a bit unnecessary for a bike with under 40 horsepower.

The three engine modes don’t really change much in day-to-day riding, although I can see the lowest mode being useful for slippery conditions or if someone is just learning. The traction control works fine, but I don’t really see the need for a “G” mode on a street bike.

I find the ABS responsive, and I like that the rear can be switched off, even though the labeling of the front “off-road” mode is a little odd. The LCD dash is straightforward and easy to read, but I do wish it had a few more features—like a gear indicator or a built-in USB port instead of needing an accessory.

Pros and Cons

FAQs

Q1: How is the DR-Z4SM’s power delivery and performance?

A: The engine is very smooth and controllable from low to mid revs, ideal for city and canyon riding. Peak power is modest, and the 5-speed gearbox can feel busy on highways above 60 mph. The bike excels at low-to-mid speed agility rather than long highway runs.

Q2: Is the DR-Z4SM beginner-friendly?

A: Yes. The bike is light (~154 kg / 340 lbs), easy to handle, and has predictable throttle response. Three engine maps, traction control, and ABS add extra safety, making it very approachable for newer riders.

Q3: Would you recommend it for experienced riders?

A: It’s fun, but experienced riders may miss top-end power or a 6th gear. That said, for city fun, backroad carving, and easy handling, it’s still very engaging.

Q4: Is it comfortable for long rides?

A: The upright riding position is good for short trips, canyon runs, or city riding. However, the seat is quite firm, and wind protection is minimal, so long freeway rides can become tiring.

Q5: How does it compare to the old DR-Z400SM in feel?

A: The new DR-Z4SM is more refined and usable at low speeds. The suspension is more adjustable, the engine smoother, and electronics add confidence—but it’s slightly heavier, so it feels more planted than the raw, playful DR-Z400SM.

Conlusion

The DR-Z4SM isn’t about speed or highway comfort—it’s about playful city fun, short blasts, and confidence for new riders.

If that’s what you want, it’s hard to beat; but if you need long-distance touring or strong top-end power, you may want to look elsewhere.

Richard R

With over 10 years of experience working on cars and trucks Item Training Supervisor Richard Reina is known around the office as one of our technical experts & real an "automobile person".

His rate of interest began, in his very own words, "at the age of two when his father educated him the distinction in between a Chevy and a Ford. Since then it's been cars regularly."

As a serious lover of practically all things with a motor Richard can address nearly any kind of inquiry related to car upkeep, fixing, or restoration & is a fact professional in electric motor background.