Suzuki has long been recognized for producing motorcycles that combine reliability, performance, and practicality. Among its offerings, the DR-Z series has a special place for riders who want a versatile bike capable of handling both city streets and off-road trails. In 2025, Suzuki has unveiled the DR-Z4SM, a new addition that promises enhanced performance, advanced features, and a more refined riding experience.
Whether you are an experienced rider looking for a dual-sport machine or a commuter who wants a bike with off-road potential, the Suzuki DR-Z4SM is designed to cater to multiple needs. This review takes a detailed look at its engine, design, handling, features, and overall performance.
Design and Styling
The Suzuki DR-Z4SM carries a modern dual-sport design that balances ruggedness with urban practicality. The bike features a minimalist bodywork with sharp lines, a high-mounted front fender, and a compact tail section. Its aggressive stance makes it suitable for both on-road commuting and off-road adventures.
The frame is lightweight yet sturdy, contributing to excellent handling and maneuverability. The seat height is slightly elevated, which helps in off-road situations, while still being accessible for average-height riders. The DR-Z4SM also comes with LED headlight and taillight units, enhancing both visibility and aesthetics.
Engine and Performance
At the heart of the DR-Z4SM is a single-cylinder, 398cc, liquid-cooled engine. This engine has been tuned to deliver a smooth balance between power and torque, providing enough punch for city rides and off-road excursions. The engine produces approximately 41 horsepower and 36 Nm of torque, making it competitive in the dual-sport segment.
The bike comes with a six-speed manual transmission, ensuring smooth gear shifts and better control over a variety of terrains. Its throttle response is refined, offering predictable power delivery which is particularly useful when navigating uneven or slippery surfaces.
Suspension and Handling
The DR-Z4SM’s suspension setup has been designed to provide stability and comfort across different terrains. The front features telescopic forks, while the rear uses a mono-shock suspension with adjustable preload. This combination allows riders to fine-tune the ride according to their preferences or the terrain conditions.
The lightweight frame, combined with the long-travel suspension, makes the DR-Z4SM agile in tight corners and capable of handling bumps, jumps, and rough trails efficiently. It strikes a balance between sporty handling for the road and the robustness required for off-road challenges.
Braking and Safety
Safety is a key consideration in the DR-Z4SM. The bike comes equipped with dual-disc brakes on the front and rear wheels, coupled with advanced ABS. This braking setup ensures strong stopping power even in wet or slippery conditions.
The addition of traction control in select variants further enhances rider confidence, particularly when riding on loose gravel, muddy trails, or wet city roads. The braking and safety systems are tuned to complement the bike’s performance without interfering with the thrill of riding.
Comfort and Ergonomics
Despite being a dual-sport machine, the DR-Z4SM offers a comfortable ride for daily commuting. The ergonomics are carefully designed to support both seated and standing positions, which is essential for off-road riding.
The seat is padded sufficiently to provide comfort on longer rides, and the footpegs are positioned to offer good leverage when navigating obstacles. The handlebars are wide and slightly raised, giving the rider better control and reducing fatigue during extended rides.
Features and Technology
Suzuki has incorporated several features into the DR-Z4SM to enhance convenience and usability:
- Full digital instrument cluster displaying speed, gear, fuel level, and trip information
- LED lighting system for better night-time visibility
- Adjustable suspension for tailored ride comfort
- Lightweight alloy wheels with dual-purpose tyres for on-road and off-road traction
- Engine kill switch and side-stand engine cutoff for added safety
These features, combined with the bike’s performance, make the DR-Z4SM a versatile machine that can handle different riding conditions effortlessly.
Fuel Efficiency and Practicality
One of the highlights of the DR-Z4SM is its fuel efficiency. Despite its relatively large engine, the bike delivers a mileage of around 35–40 km per liter, depending on riding conditions. The fuel tank capacity allows for decent range, making it practical for daily commuting as well as weekend adventures.
The bike also offers easy maintenance, with accessible engine components and a proven Suzuki reliability record. This makes it a practical choice for riders who want a dependable dual-sport motorcycle.
Competition in the Market
The DR-Z4SM competes with other mid-range dual-sport motorcycles like the Kawasaki KLX 400, Honda CRF450L, and Yamaha WR250R. While each of these bikes has its strengths, the Suzuki stands out due to its balance of on-road comfort, off-road capability, and user-friendly design.
Its competitive pricing and refined engine performance make it an attractive choice for riders seeking a versatile dual-sport motorcycle that can handle both city streets and trails.
Price and Availability
Suzuki has positioned the DR-Z4SM in the mid-range dual-sport segment, making it accessible for a wide range of riders. Pricing varies by region but is expected to be competitive with other dual-sport bikes in the 3.5–4.5 lakh INR range.
The bike is available at authorized Suzuki dealerships and comes with a warranty that covers standard service and maintenance, ensuring peace of mind for new owners.
Final Verdict
The 2025 Suzuki DR-Z4SM is a well-rounded dual-sport motorcycle that caters to riders looking for versatility, performance, and reliability. Its 398cc engine, lightweight frame, and advanced features make it suitable for both city commutes and off-road adventures.
With competitive pricing, strong fuel efficiency, and practical ergonomics, the DR-Z4SM is an appealing option for enthusiasts who want a motorcycle that can handle a variety of conditions without compromising on comfort or performance. For those entering the dual-sport segment or looking for a reliable adventure bike, the Suzuki DR-Z4SM is a compelling choice.