The DR-Z4S is powered by a thoroughly updated 398cc single-cylinder four-valve DOHC engine that delivers a smooth, controllable spread of torque from low RPM up through peak power. The redesigned cylinder head has optimized shapes for the intake port, intake valve boundary, and a smooth, flat combustion chamber that produces better combustion to provide consistent power under low loads with strong power output under heavier loads. The DOHC cylinder head contains a pair of lightweight titanium intake valves and a pair of hollow, sodium filled exhaust valves that help maximize combustion efficiency and performance.

Every aspect of the new air cleaner box design was studied and updated, including its capacity and outlet shape, to improve intake air flow. The length of the inlet tube and the diameter of its mouth were designed to achieve balance between intake air sound and the engine’s power delivery to generate sharp throttle response and powerful low-speed torque. The left side body cover has a quick-release fastener, and swings open like a door, retaining the popular, easy access to the air filter element.

New camshaft profiles have increased intake lift and optimized valve overlap, contributing to both improved engine performance and world-wide emissions compliance. The valve spring rates have been increased to match the increased intake valve lift. Like a GSX-R, the DR-Z4S’ shim-under-bucket valve adjustment system has long service intervals.

Now equipped with Electronic Fuel Injection, the engine is fed through an electronically controlled throttle body with a 42 mm bore and a 10-hole injector. This system provides easier starts, especially when the engine is cold, and continually monitors throttle position/engine speed and adjusts ignition timing to maintain efficient combustion. By achieving an ideal fuel-air ratio, the engine provides good response as the rider opens the throttle.

The DR-Z4S cylinder head features Suzuki’s Dual Spark Technology, utilizing two iridium spark plugs, for heightened spark strength and longevity. This also improves combustion efficiency at low engine speeds, smoother power delivery, easier engine start-up, and a more consistent idle.

Optimization of the new piston’s ovality and skirt shape has achieved both a reduction in mechanical loss and smoother, quieter engine operation. The Suzuki Composite Electrochemical Materials (SCEM) cylinder is durable and lightweight and provides superior heat transfer.

The combination of new piston and crankcase designs reduces mechanical loss by up to 20%. This contributes to smoother engine operation, increased power output right up to the rev limit, and improved fuel economy.

Carried over from the DR-Z400S to the DR-Z4S is the dry sump lubrication system, which contributes to a compact engine design that provides ample ground clearance and a low center of gravity.

This new Ride-by-Wire throttle body system helps achieve a good balance between idle speed control and peak power output, while also contributing to emission standards compliance.

Simple electric starting via a lightweight starter motor with an automatic mechanical decompression system. The magneto (stator and rotor) have been redesigned to increase power generation efficiency.

The new exhaust system features a double-wall silencer design that helps protect the rider’s legs from extreme heat, also contributing to the DR-Z4S’ slim body profile. The use of a PAIR (air supply) system to the exhaust helps the motorcycle achieve emissions compliance without affecting performance.

A larger, thermostatically controlled cooling fan mounted to the left radiator helps maintain a consistent operating temperature.

The revised, compact, five-speed transmission utilizes a cable-operated clutch with a separate outer cover for simplified clutch maintenance.

Most of the gears and shafts in the transmission were updated to reduce oil windage (drag) and to increase strength.

The transmission’s output is managed by the Suzuki Clutch Assist System (SCAS). This system works like a slipper clutch by allowing a small amount of clutch slip under deceleration for smoother downshifts. The SCAS also works as an assist clutch, increasing plate pressure under acceleration, but always keeps the clutch lever’s pull light and precise. This large-diameter, wet, multi-plate clutch uses a precise cable-activated release, providing the rider with a light pull and a superb friction-point feel.

Riding on durable steel sprockets, a strong O-ring style drive chain contains lubrication pre-packed between the pins and rollers for quiet, reliable operation.

Supplied by KYB, the new long stroke inverted cartridge-style fork with 11.0 in. (280 mm) of travel has adjustable compression and rebound damping force for smooth performance on all types of on- and off-road terrain. The new frame and fork also update the fork rake and trail specifications for a balance of nimble handling and straight-line performance. The new, rear KYB shock absorber has 11.6 in. (296 mm) of rear wheel travel with spring preload plus both compression and rebound damping force adjustments, and connects to a new, lightweight aluminum swingarm through a progressive linkage system.

The DR-Z4S’ new bodywork features Suzuki Champion Yellow No. 2 / Solid Special White No. 2 or Solid Iron Gray bodywork with modern graphics. The bodywork smoothly fits together, creating a “linear connection” from front to rear, through a bold horizontal line the flows from the front fender through to the tail. The MX-inspired styling also conveys the impression that the DR-Z4S is a serious off-road performer.

The redesigned trim frame combines cast components with thin chrome-moly steel tubes for exceptional torsional rigidity with minimal weight. It is formed from steel pipe that makes it rigid, strong, and supple to handle rough surfaces and improve rider comfort.

The new frame and sub-frame provide a similar, ergonomically-sound riding position as the outgoing DR-Z400S. To better suit off-road riding, the new large diameter tapered aluminum handlebar is set 1.10 in. (28 mm) higher while the new, wider rider’s pegs are set 0.27 in. (7 mm) higher and 0.90 in. (23 mm) farther back, and the seat height is slightly increased from 35.2 in. (895 mm) on the DR-Z400S to 36.8 in. (935 mm) on the DR-Z4S.

The large new diameter tapered aluminum handlebars are light, strong and flexible to help damp vibration. Handlebar grips are a half-waffle design to improve rider comfort and control. Wider footpegs, with removable vibration damping rubber inserts, provide good grip to the rider's boots when standing or sitting.

Spoke-style 21-inch front and 18-inch rear wheels with blacked-out aluminum rims are fitted with IRC GP-410 dual-purpose, tube-type tires. The wheels are sized to accept popular dual sport tires and are set up to accept rim-locks when a more aggressive tread pattern is used.

New to a Suzuki dual sport model, the IRC GP-410 dual purpose tires 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 large center blocks that help provide a solid grip and contribute to the model’s outstanding dirt capability.

The aluminum under cover is standard equipment that help protects the bottom of the engine and matches the model’s rugged, off-road image. Suzuki Genuine Accessories offers a larger, thick aluminum skid plate that offers additional protection for the bottom of the engine and frame when riding on rough terrain.

The front wheel uses a dual piston, sliding pin, axially mounted caliper that grasps a 270 mm stainless steel brake rotor. The rear wheel uses an axially mounted, single piston caliper with a 240 mm brake rotor that is also constructed of stainless steel for good heat dissipation and durability.

The fuel tank is a new, flush lightweight design where the side covers (radiator shrouds) cover both sides (fuel capacity is 2.3 US gal. (8.7 L)).

Delivering a sense of control and comfort, Suzuki Drive Mode Selector (SDMS) provides the DR-Z4S rider with a choice of three different engine power output characteristics (modes). Working in concert with the Traction Control System*, SDMS permits peak power in each mode while changing the nature of the power delivery.

Suzuki Traction Control System (STCS) continuously monitors front and rear wheel speeds, throttle opening, engine speed, and transmission gear. It quickly reduces engine output when it detects wheel spin by retarding the ignition timing and limiting the throttle opening. The rider can select one of four modes (1, 2, G, and OFF).

The DR-Z4S is equipped with a compact, yet effective Bosch-supplied ABS control and is the first Suzuki production motorcycle with an ABS system with a Front & Rear ABS OFF mode that will deactivate the ABS function for both the front and rear wheels. The DR-Z4S also offers Rear ABS OFF mode, which switches off just the rear wheel ABS.

The DR-Z4S has a newly designed LCD instrument panel that is light and compact, with a straightforward, legible display. This panel not only supplies critical real-time operating status information, but also keeps the rider aware of the settings for the bike’s respective systems.

All of the DR-Z4S’ lighting is new, low-draw LED type, including the turn signals (white lenses with amber illumination), the taillight, and license plate illumination light. The new bifunction LED headlight is a unique design that incorporates both the high- and low-beam functions into one, bright projector module

Suzuki Easy Start system allows the rider to easily start the engine with a single, momentary press of the starter button.

Suzuki Genuine Accessories provide riders a fun and practical way to customize and personalize their DR-Z4S. These accessories include a handlebar-mounted DC power socket, a low-profile seat, a rugged aluminum skid plate, cargo rack, handguard set (knuckle covers), front and rear brake disc guards, and more.

Suzuki 12-month limited warranty. Longer coverage periods with other benefits are available through Suzuki Extended Protection (SEP).