On or off the road, there is nothing holding the rider back from fully enjoying every outing. It also expresses how we have taken a proven, class-leading product in the DR-Z400E and thoroughly updated it, both in terms of performance and styling, to realize the latest interpretation of what a superior dual-sport motorcycle should offer in the coming years.
The 398cc engine from the previous model DR-Z400E has been upgraded and a great number of components have been changed to comply with new regulations while still retaining the same level of performance that made the DR-Z what it is. New intake and exhaust valves, cams, and springs optimize weight and comply with Euro 5+ standards. Upgraded cylinder head, piston, and crankcases reduce power loss, oil loss, and improve engine output. Dual spark plugs help smooth out power delivery, low fuel use, low emissions, improve throttle response, and improve engine start up and idle.
Changing from a carburettor to fuel injection makes the engine more tenacious and controllable when riding at low speeds on rough surfaces or twisty forest trails. The fuel injection system achieves optimal air-fuel ratios, resulting in smoother engine output, better response, easier starts, and better performance at higher elevations or in cold weather.
Tuned specifically for the DR-Z4S, the assist function settings were painstakingly designed and tested to focus on controllability and positive clutch engagement both on and off the road. The assist function leverages a precision-engineered cam to engage the clutch sleeve hub and pressure disc together and efficiently transfer torque to the rear wheel under acceleration, all while using softer clutch springs. As a result, it reduces the amount of required operating force and improves operation.
The slipper clutch partially disengages when downshifting to decelerate to mitigate the effect of engine braking. By helping to limit rear tire hopping and providing smoother deceleration, this function enables the rider to shift down with greater confidence and maintain better control.
The engine is fed by a 42 mm bore electronic-controlled throttle body. This helps achieve a better balance between idling speed control and power output characteristics, while also contributing to compliance with Euro 5+ emissions standards. Another benefit of the finer control it provides is more controllable behaviour that can be customized to best match the type of ride and preferred riding style for any given outing.
S.I.R.S. features a collection of advanced electronic rider assist systems that help optimize performance characteristics to suit your changing riding needs and preferences. From this collection, the new DR-Z4S/SM adopts Suzuki Drive Mode Selector (SDMS), the Suzuki Traction Control System (STSC), Ride-by-Wire Electronic Throttle System, ABS with Rear ABS OFF mode, and the Suzuki Easy Start System. By realizing a more controllable, predictable and less tiring riding experience, S.I.R.S. lets you ride with greater confidence, on or off the road.
Select freely between three modes that change power characteristics to match varying riding conditions or your preferences for any given outing. While all three modes ultimately deliver maximum engine output, fine control over the level of response and torque output as you open the throttle empowers you to ride with greater confidence. The settings for each mode are meticulously tuned and thoroughly tested to deliver optimum performance.
STCS helps prevent rear wheel spin, enabling you to better control the bike in diverse and varying conditions. This reduces stress and fatigue, while also instilling greater confidence. Freely select between two standard on-road modes, G (Gravel) mode, or opt to turn the system off. With settings for each model specifically tuned to match its respective tire and suspension configuration, STCS provides optimized performance on both the DR-Z4S and the DR-Z4SM.
The Anti-lock Brake System (ABS) contributes to more stable braking by helping prevent the wheels from locking up, even under hard braking. The ABS unit itself features a compact, lightweight design that contributes to nimble handling.
The DR-Z4S lets you switch off ABS at both the front and rear wheels, giving you the option to match your preferred control method when braking on gravel or other loose surfaces.
This system lets the rider start the motorcycle with one quick press of the starter button. There is no need to pull in the clutch lever when the transmission is in neutral, and the starter motor automatically disengages the instant the engine fires up. As a function used every time the engine is started, removing the bother of the above operations makes the riding experience more pleasurable and convenient.
Adjustable KYB inverted front forks with a long 280 mm suspension stroke and KYB rear suspension with 296 mm of rear wheel travel provide stability and precise handling. The settings are tailored to respond faithfully to your intention when riding off road, for example when taking a run on twisty forest trails. Both the front and rear suspension offer compression and rebound you to set the suspension best match your preference or the usage conditions.
Single front 270 mm and 240 mm rear disc brakes provide sure and stable stopping power. Axial mount calipers provide resistance to vibration when riding over rough terrain. The DR-Z4S rides on a 21-inch front and 18-inch rear wirespoked wheel shod with IRC GP-410 dual purpose tube tires (80/100-21M/C at the front; 120/80-18M/C at the rear) that feature a custom-engineered interior structure exclusive to the DR-Z4S.
The newly designed LCD instrument panel is both light and compact. It features a clearly legible display that not only supplies critical real-time operating status information, but also keeps you informed of the settings for the respective on-board systems.
Both the high and low beams are incorporated into one bright LED projector headlight that is compact, light and durable. LED position lights integrated right into the turn signal assemblies help round out the functional yet minimalistic lighting scheme. The rear combination light and license plate light both employ compact LEDs that create a highly visible and striking lighting scheme, contributing to the futuristic appeal of the tough, modern styling.
