Suzuki DR-Z4SM 2026 — Specifications

The fashion is ultimately just an eternal restart. When it was thought that the little DR had disappeared, Suzuki decided to revive this sparkling machine. Between everyday utility workhorse and weekend fun, why choose? If you've already heard about the trail version, it's time to look at the supermotard version that encourages you to ride with your leg forward!

Discontinued from the catalog in 2006, the DRZ 400 SM returns as the DRZ4-SM, which is essentially the same thing. What changes is the bodywork. To mark the break with the previous generation, the Japanese manufacturer chose to renew the lines of its little machine. This is commendable because, for economic reasons, Suzuki could simply have reintroduced the previous model. But this new bodywork also seeks to translate the technical renewal of the machine, which is equipped with driving aids, among other things. The look is more lively, more pronounced, and it’s quite nice to look at. The motorcycle doesn’t try to look bigger than it is either. It’s all finesse, and you’re sure to feel like you’re riding a big bicycle.

In detail, you notice the small headlight fairing which houses the minimalist headlight, the radiator shrouds are in keeping with today’s off-road designs, and the seat is relatively flat. A well-executed touch is the small luggage rack that remains on the motorcycle, even though the small kit is no longer found as on the previous generation. A visit to equipment suppliers will correct the oversight of this little practical detail. Don’t stick a top case on it!! Sacrilege. The tank only holds 8.7 liters.

At the rear of the machine, the taillight is also much better integrated than in the past; it’s clean and sporty.

Behind the headlight fairing, the instrumentation is relatively simple and minimalist. No TFT screen, but an LCD dashboard that still offers a gear indicator, a fuel gauge, and a clock.

Although you might think it’s a copy-paste of the chassis, the DRZ4-SM returns with a modified chassis. The steel frame now consists of two longerons that extend to the steering column with a transverse reinforcement at the top of the engine. Stiffness should improve, and so should sportiness. The swingarm is made of aluminum with a new design and, undoubtedly, more contemporary properties than the 2006 version to echo the new frame.

The KYB inverted fork has 260 mm of travel, and the rear mono-shock offers 277 mm of travel. Ground clearance is 260 mm. The seat height at 890 mm is a bit high; shorter legs will probably feel uncomfortable. Tires are mounted 120/70x17 front and 140/70x17 rear. They are not tubeless but are fitted with inner tubes.

Braking is slightly larger than on the trail model; the front disc goes to 310 mm (versus 270) and is still bitten by a two-piston caliper (which is not radially mounted). Given the weight of 154 kg, this should be sufficient, but it will probably be less bitey. Braking is assisted by ABS, which can be disconnected on the rear wheel for this SM version.

Almost nothing remains of the old single-cylinder engine. The engineers faced the challenge of bringing this engine up to Euro5+ standards. The list would be far too long to enumerate here in its entirety, but know that the piston, ignition, exhaust system, injection, cooling, everything has been the subject of new parts or modifications. The single-cylinder engine has lost a few feathers (2 horsepower less than the 2004 model) but promises greater availability. Thus, power is now 38 horsepower at 8,000 rpm for 37 Nm of torque at 6,500 rpm.

The clutch is assisted and slipper (SCAS). The ride-by-wire (cableless electronic) throttle control allows the introduction of driving aids called Suzuki Intelligent Ride System (SIRS). There are three riding modes, a 3-level adjustable traction control, and a deactivatable system.

The power is modest, but the weight is ridiculous; this DR-Z4SM promises everyday fun. A motorcycle that won’t be practical but offers a rejuvenation every time you ride it. But are we ready to pay the price? Around 6,500 euros, it would have been perfect… but totally utopian. The Suzuki is manufactured in Japan and has been heavily revised. Even on promotion, the DR cannot compete with the competition.