All new Suzuki DRZs
Words and images courtesy Suzuki
Suzuki has revealed all-new DR-Z4S and DR-Z4SM models. The covers were pulled off the dual sport and supermoto machines at Eicma in Milan, Italy.
Spiritual successors to the popular DR-Z400S and DR-Z400SM models of the noughties, the two fresh 400s use a new twin-spar steel frame. This frame includes a separate, bolt-on aluminium subframe and aluminium swingarm.
It houses a new 398cc single-cylinder engine. There’s also an electronics package that includes power modes, switchable ABS, and a sophisticated traction control system with off-road modes.
Designed to bring the fun to whatever environment, they promise to make ‘Your World, Your Playground.’
Suzuki Engine
Powering both the DR-Z4S and DR-Z4SM is a new 398cc, single-cylinder, liquid cooled, DOHC four-stroke engine. The new engine was designed to meet Euro 5B standards. It maintains the reputation for robustness and reliability that the previous generation DR-Z400 engine was famed for.
It provides a smooth, linear power delivery with stronger torque at lower rpm and increased power output to the rev limit, plus improved fuel economy.
When compared to the previous DR-Z400 engine, there are changes to almost every aspect. These changes include lightweight titanium intake valves and hollow, sodium-filled exhaust valves. There are also 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.
Fuelling comes courtesy of 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 is a broader spread of power across the rev range. This provides strong drive yet smooth ride, a direct, linear throttle response, and improved fuel economy.
Peak power is 38PS at 8,000rpm, with a peak torque figure of 37Nm at 6,500rpm. Both achieve over 80mpg.
Suzuki Electronics
Both models use a package of carefully selected, ride-enhancing electronic aids; the Suzuki Intelligent Ride System.
Suzuki Drive Mode Selector (SDMS) means riders can choose from one of three power modes. Each mode reaches the same peak power output. Mode A is the most direct, delivering the full amount of low-down torque available from the 398cc single-cylinder engine.
Modes B and C are progressively softer, allowing riders to dial back the initial power delivery to suit in slippery or low grip conditions.
There are two standard traction control modes on both models. Each is also equipped with its own specific G (gravel) mode. G mode aims to maintain maximum off-road performance by allowing a certain amount of wheel spin.
G mode’s level of intervention is set slower than the traction control system’s other two standard modes. The maximum level of intervention is also set lower. This provides the right balance between preventing excessive wheel spin on slippery surfaces and minimising power loss.
This makes the bike easier to control on surfaces with traction.
On the DR-4S, the focus is on enabling riders to enjoy off-road riding with confidence. It adopts an updated version of the system compared with the application on the V-Strom 1050DE and V-Strom 800DE. It is effective not only on flat surfaces but also on undulating terrain and inclines.
On DR-Z4SM, it is tailored more toward flat-dirt surfaces. It allows a little more slip tolerance than on the V-Strom DEs, letting the rider better tap into the model’s supermoto character.
Further enabling greater control off-road is an ABS system that riders can tailor to their needs and riding conditions.
On the DR-Z4S riders can disengage the ABS at the rear, or at the front and rear. On the DR-Z4SM, riders can disengage the rear ABS.
There’s also Suzuki’s easy-start system. This means the engine fires up with one press of the starter button, and there’s no need to pull the clutch lever when starting in neutral.
All rider information is displayed via a compact LCD dash.
Suzuki Chassis
A brand new, twin-spar steel frame was developed for the new DR-Z4S and DR-Z4SM models. It is mated to a new aluminium subframe and an aluminium swingarm. Like the engine, it was designed to build on the previous model’s reputation for precise, agile handling.
The aim was also to enhance easy manoeuvrability. The new chassis is rigid, yet supple.
It can absorb impact and bumps on rougher terrain, and reduce rider fatigue.
Long-travel suspension on both the DR-Z4S and DR-Z4SM comes from KYB. It is specifically tuned for each model’s intended application. There is 280mm of front fork travel and 296mm of rear wheel travel on the DR-Z4S.
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. There’s also preload adjustment on the rear shock.
Wheels are wire-spoked on both models. The DR-Z4S is fitted with a 21” front and 18” rear, compared to the 17” rims in the DR-Z4SM. IRC GP-410, dual purpose, tubed tyres are standard on the S.
Meanwhile, the SM is shod with Dunlop SPORTMAX Q5A tyres.
There are disc brakes all round, and the tapered aluminium handlebars are equipped with half-waffle grips. These grips distribute pressure across the palms and make them easier to hold. This aids control and greatly reduces rider fatigue. Foot pegs are wide and solid, providing sure-footing off-road. They offer robustness to withstand impacts. There’s also an aluminium under guard as standard.
Ground clearance comes in at a useful 300mm on the DR-Z4S, and 260mm on the DR-Z4SM. Seat heights are 920mm and 890mm and they weigh 151kg and 154kg, respectively.
Suzuki Styling
Taking design cues from Suzuki’s RM-Z range, the new DR-Z4S and DR-Z4SM are designed to emphasise agile performance. There is a linear connection from front to rear. The focus was on establishing a bold horizontal line along the sides. It cuts right from the front fender through to the tail.
Ergonomics also played a key role in the new design. The DR-Z4S and DR-Z4SM models are crafted to not interfere with the rider.
Lighting all-round is LED, from the single assembly headlight, rear combination lights, and indicators.
The DR-Z4S is available in Suzuki’s signature off-road Champion Yellow, and Solid Iron Grey, both with black rims. The DR-Z4SM comes in a new blue/grey colour scheme, dubbed Sky Grey, plus a Solid Special White, equipped with blue rims.
The ‘DR-Z’ decals on each side of the cowling in front of the engine are modern and simple. Following the horizontal line along the cowling, these decals feature a colourful gradation below the lettering. This reflects the modern image of the DR-Z.