Suzuki’s Coolest Entry-Level Moto Gets a (Nearly) Blacked-Out Uplift and a $1,000 Price CutGear PatrolSteve MazzucchiUpdatedFri, September 25, 2026 at 5:57 PM UTCAdd us on GoogleThe new look and cost of the 2027 DR-Z4S instantly make this approachable all-terrain ripper more compelling than its predecessor.If you buy from a link, we may earn a commission. Learn moreSuzuki's recent announcement of its 2027 models is headlined by some potentially significant price reductions.In addition to the much more affordable GSX-S1000 streetfighter I covered yesterday, the GSX-8S and GSX-8R also get notable slashes.Replacing Solid Iron Gray, the new Solid Black color scheme gives the 2027 DR-Z4S a look that makes the lower price even more appealing. - Credit: Suzuki CyclesStill the best discount, by percentage, is the DR-Z range, which sees an 11 percent drop for the DR-Z4S, DR-Z4SM and DR-Z4S+.AdvertisementAdvertisementThe first bike on that DR-Z slate really stands out, as the approachable, versatile dual sport not only drops from a starting price of $8,999 to $7,999 but also, like the aforementioned streetfighter, picks up a sweet, nearly blacked-out color scheme.(Granted there are some yellow accents and silver-toned components, but it's pretty dang close.)For those who prefer a bit more of a race vibe, the bike also reprises this Champion Yellow No. 2 / Solid Special White No. 2 treatment from last year.These changes markedly increase the appeal of Suzuki's modern reinvention of the beloved DR-Z400S, built for riders who want a capable dual sport without sacrificing street manners.A fuel-injected 398cc DOHC single feeds power through a ride-by-wire throttle body, while a twin-spar steel frame and fully adjustable KYB suspension (280mm up front, 296mm out back) keep things planted on gravel or pavement. Fully adjustable KYB suspension gives the DR-Z4S 280mm (11 inches) of travel up front and 296mm (11.65 inches) out back, complementing nearly a foot of ground clearance. - Credit: Suzuki CyclesMeanwhile, the Suzuki Intelligent Ride System adds four-mode traction control, a ride mode selector and a first for the brand: front-and-rear ABS-off capability.AdvertisementAdvertisementI should add one caveat with regard to the bike's approachability: while the 333-pound curb weight makes it incredibly lean and nimble, the seat height is 36.2 inches.The DR-Z4S features a first for Suzuki: the option to disable ABS on both wheels, alongside four-mode traction control and a ride mode selector. - Credit: Suzuki CyclesThat figure is not unusual for a dual sport, as it helps the bike reach 11.8 inches of ground clearance for tackling all kinds of terrain, but it may take some getting used to for smaller and newer riders unaccustomed to supporting the bike on one leg when stopping. Ultimately, as RideApart points out, the 2027 DR-Z4S is still pricier than somewhat comparable models such as Honda's CRF300L ($5,749) and KTM's 390 SMC R ($6,049).But especially with the new blacked-out look, the bike is much more competitive than it was just a few weeks ago.2027 Suzuki DR-Z4S $7,999 at Suzuki Cycles AdvertisementAdvertisementAbout the Author:Now managing editor, Steve has served in a variety of roles with GP since 2019. Having previously written and edited for such publications as Men's Health, Men's Journal, Esquire and ESPN, he enjoys covering a range of topics — but mostly those pertaining to cycling, snow sports, pocket knives and motos — and dreams of a utopian world in which everyone's bike seat is at the proper height.