2025 Suzuki DR-Z4S Review – A Modern Take on a Dual-Sport Icon
The 2025 Suzuki DR-Z4S is more than just a new model year — it’s a thoughtful evolution of a motorcycle that’s been trusted by riders for decades. At Team ECC in San Diego, CA, we’ve had the chance to experience this new generation firsthand, and we can confidently say it strikes the perfect balance between heritage and modern performance.
A Legend with a New Frame
The DR-Z has always been known for its rugged durability and go-anywhere attitude. With the 2025 DR-Z4S, Suzuki has kept that spirit alive while giving the bike a major upgrade.
The all-new twin-spar steel frame with an aluminum subframe improves rigidity and shaves weight, making it feel more precise in technical terrain and more stable at higher speeds. The fully adjustable KYB suspension front and rear allows you to fine-tune your ride for everything from tight single-track trails to long stretches of highway.
Engine Upgrades You Can Feel
At the heart of the DR-Z4S is the familiar 398cc DOHC single-cylinder engine, but it’s been thoroughly modernized. Upgrades include titanium intake valves, sodium-filled exhaust valves, dual spark plugs, and a ride-by-wire fuel injection system. These changes improve throttle response, power delivery, and efficiency — giving you about 38 horsepower and 27 lb-ft of torque to work with.
The engine’s character is smooth yet punchy, perfect for tackling rough off-road climbs or confidently merging onto the freeway. Riders will also appreciate the improved fuel economy, which means more miles between fill-ups.
Tech for Today’s Riders
Where the DR-Z4S really takes a leap forward is in its technology. Suzuki’s Intelligent Ride System (S.I.R.S.) comes standard, offering selectable riding modes, traction control, and ABS that can be switched off at the rear wheel (or entirely) for better off-road control.
The LCD display is crisp and easy to read, while the full LED lighting ensures better visibility both day and night. Add in Suzuki’s easy-start system, and you have a dual-sport that’s as convenient as it is capable.
Performance in the Real World
On the trail, the DR-Z4S feels agile and confidence-inspiring thanks to its 21-inch front and 18-inch rear wheel setup. The suspension eats up bumps, rocks, and ruts without beating up the rider. On the street, it’s stable and composed, making it equally enjoyable for daily commuting.
The five-speed gearbox is smooth, though some riders may wish for a sixth gear for extended highway runs. That said, the ratios are well-spaced for mixed-use riding.
Who the DR-Z4S Is For
This bike is ideal for:
Adventure riders who want one motorcycle for both pavement and dirt.
Weekend explorers looking for a dependable trail companion.
Daily commuters who prefer a nimble, rugged ride.
It’s a machine that can handle a Baja weekend, a trip through the local mountains, and your Monday ride to work — all without breaking a sweat.
Team ECC’s Perspective
At Team ECC in San Diego, we’ve been selling and servicing Suzuki motorcycles for years, and we know the DR-Z platform inside and out. The 2025 DR-Z4S isn’t just an incremental update — it’s a real transformation. It’s the kind of bike that makes sense for Southern California riders who want versatility without sacrificing reliability.
Our local terrain is perfect for this motorcycle: from the coastal roads to desert trails and mountain passes, the DR-Z4S can handle it all. And when you get your bike from Team ECC, you get more than a sale — you get expert setup, local riding tips, and a service department that rides what we sell.
Final Thoughts
The 2025 Suzuki DR-Z4S stays true to its roots while embracing the future. It’s a dependable, versatile, and fun dual-sport that’s ready for almost any adventure you can imagine. Whether you’re new to dual-sport riding or a seasoned veteran, this bike offers the perfect blend of modern technology and proven design.
If you want to see what the hype is about, stop by Team ECC in San Diego to check out the DR-Z4S in person. Take a seat, get a feel for the controls, and start planning your next ride — because this is one motorcycle that’s built to go wherever your imagination takes you.
