Is the Street-Legal Supermoto King Still Relevant?
The wait is finally over for fans of the “braap.” In our latest edition of In the Garage, we’re getting up close and personal with the 2025 Suzuki DR-Z4SM. This isn’t just a dual-sport with smaller wheels; it’s a dedicated, street-legal supermoto designed to turn every urban commute into a personal racetrack.
Built on the legendary bones of the DR-Z400 but thoroughly modernized for today’s riders, the DR-Z4SM features a 399cc liquid-cooled, DOHC single-cylinder engine. While some might cry for a sixth gear, the tried-and-true 5-speed transmission proves surprisingly versatile, offering enough low-end grunt to loft the front wheel and a top speed of roughly 93 mph for those highway dashes.
Agility Meets Technology One of the standout upgrades is the inclusion of the Suzuki Intelligent Ride System (S.I.R.S.). Riders can now toggle between three engine power modes (A, B, and C) to match their skill level or road conditions. While the traction control might be overkill given the incredible grip of the Dunlop SportMax Q5A tires, having the option to adjust or disable rear ABS is a massive win for riders who want to slide the back end into corners—supermoto style.
Hardware and Handling The bike sits on a twin-spar steel frame paired with a cast aluminum swingarm, weighing in at a nimble 340 lbs fully fueled. The KYB suspension is a highlight, featuring an oversized front fork with compression and rebound damping adjustment. Suzuki even included air bleed screws on the fork caps—a professional touch that ensures consistent performance whether you’re at sea level or carving through mountain passes.
With its striking LED “projectile” headlight and high-quality aluminum spoked wheels, the Suzuki looks as sharp as it handles. It’s a premium machine made in Japan that reminds us why we fell in love with lightweight singles in the first place.
2025 Suzuki DR-Z4SM Technical Specifications
- Engine: 399cc, 4-stroke, liquid-cooled, single-cylinder, DOHC
- Transmission: 5-speed constant mesh with cable-actuated clutch
- Horsepower: Approx. 32–34 hp
- Frame: Twin-spar steel frame with aluminum subframe
- Suspension (Front): KYB inverted fork with adjustable compression and rebound damping
- Suspension (Rear): KYB link-type shock with adjustable preload and compression damping
- Wheels: 17-inch spoked aluminum wheels
- Tires: Dunlop SportMax Q5A (120/70-17 Front; 140/70-17 Rear)
- Brakes: Single disc front (axial-mount caliper); single disc rear; Bosch ABS (Rear defeatable)
- Fuel Capacity: 2.3 US gal.
- Curb Weight: 340 lbs.
- U.S. MSRP: $9,000
- Warranty: 12-month, unlimited mileage, limited warranty
