An Iconic Suzuki Motorcycle Just Got Three Sweet Upgrades Without Breaking the Bank

Those with longer moto memories may recognize the silhouette of the Suzuki on this page, which has roots dating back to the millennium.

In the year 2000, the Japanese manufacturer began producing the dual-sport bike known as the DR-Z400, which, like a jagged stone dropped in a placid pond, had some interesting ripple effects.

Suzuki Cycles

These include a private label Kawasaki version dubbed the KLX400, a slightly modified take on the bike used by the Australian Army and ultimately four commercial variants highlighted by the excellent street-legal supermoto, DR-Z400SM, that emerged in 2005.

Two decades later, the nameplate has been retired, but its spirit very much lives on in the DR-Z4SM and now perhaps the best-ever version, the new DR-Z4SM+, which improves upon the original at minimal cost to the consumer.

Trio of upgrades

I’ll get into what makes this versatile supermoto so great shortly, but first, let’s look at what this bike gains over the “non-plussed” version.

Perhaps the most obvious addition is handguards. While this accessory is much more common on off-road-focused bikes, it’s not unwelcome on tarmac, as it can shield your knuckles from wind and cold while adding style points.

Suzuki Cycles

The second upgrade is front and rear axle sliders. Made of nylon, these little peg-like protrusions may not look like much, but they help protect key components of the bike in the event it goes down. 

Note: Even if you are an exemplary rider, bikes get knocked over far too often — I mean, have you seen Pee-wee’s Big Adventure? — adding to the appeal of some extra protection.

The final factory-installed add-on might quietly be the best. It’s that little rear cargo rack, which makes it much easier to strap down and transport everything from a bag to a helmet to a pizza on the back of your rig.

Suzuki Cycles

These three items are what make the DR-Z4SM+ cost $300 more than standard DR-Z4SM while still tucking nicely under $10,000 at $9,299.

Were you to purchase them individually, you’d be looking at $80 for the knuckle covers, $50 each for the front and rear axle sliders and $280 for the rear carrier. That totals $460, and you have to install them yourself.

Putting the “super” in supermoto

As alluded to earlier, those features merely add to a number of existing elements that make this bike a fun and functional option, particularly for urban riders.

The beating heart is the 398cc single-cylinder engine, which boasts a smooth, reliable torque curve, complemented by a five-speed constant mesh gearbox and ride-by-wire tech. 

Suzuki Cycles

The new twin-spar frame and swingarm boost responsiveness, while KYB fully adjustable suspension and 17-inch Dunlop SPORTMAX Q5A tires keep the ride comfortable and confident.

Meanwhile, the brakes — a 310mm front rotor with dual-piston caliper and a 240mm rear rotor with single-piston caliper — pair up with ABS (with the option to toggle off rear ABS) for composed stopping power. 

Suzuki Cycles

Like most modern bikes from the brand, the DR-Z4SM+ also features the Suzuki Intelligent Ride System (S.I.R.S.), complete with multiple ride and traction control options, including a Gravel mode for optimal performance off the beaten path.

Rounding out the supermoto style are tapered aluminum bars, wide footpegs, and a revamped seat, plus streamlined bodywork, LED lighting and a full LCD display to ensure you can see — and your bike can be seen at its best.

Availability and pricing

The 2026 Suzuki DR-Z4SM+ should begin rolling into dealerships early next year at a starting price of $9,299.

Suzuki Cycles

2026 Suzuki DR-Z4SM

• Starts at $9,299

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