The change from a carburettor to a fuel injection system makes the engine more tenacious and controllable when riding at low speeds on rough surfaces or twisty forest trails. By helping to achieve the ideal fuel-air ratio, the fuel injection system also results in smoother output characteristics, better response, easier starts, and improved usability at higher elevations and in cold weather. The system’s 10-hole fuel injector helps achieve optimal fuel atomization for better combustion efficiency and lower fuel consumption.

The DR-Z4SM utilizes two iridium spark plugs, which feature heightened spark strength, within the engine’s single cylinder. The result is improved combustion efficiency at low rpm and smoother power delivery. Specific benefits include more linear throttle response, lower fuel consumption, lower emissions, easier engine start-up, and a more stable idle.

Optimization of the piston’s ovality and skirt shape has achieved both a reduction in mechanical loss and smoother, quieter engine operation.

The profiles of both the intake and exhaust cams have been optimized so the engine delivers improved low-speed torque, tenacious staying power at low rpm, and a satisfying punch to output at high rpm. The intake cam increases intake air volume by increasing maximum lift and improves efficiency at low rpm by optimizing timing, while the exhaust cam shortens the valve overlap period by changing the working angle. Each of these changes contributes significantly to enhancing output performance and reducing emissions.

Two lightweight titanium intake valves and a pair of hollow sodium-filled exhaust valves contribute to maximizing combustion efficiency and performance. By reducing weight, they allow greater freedom in designing cam profiles optimized for both power output and emissions. The hollow sodium-filled exhaust valves help reduce temperature in the combustion chamber, which not only results in better loading efficiency and a better feeling, but also contributes to improving durability.

Tuned specifically for the DR-Z4SM, the assist function settings were painstakingly designed and tested to focus on controllability and positive clutch engagement both on and off the road. The assist function leverages a precision-engineered cam to engage the clutch sleeve hub and pressure disc together and efficiently transfer torque to the rear wheel under acceleration, all while using softer clutch springs. As a result, it reduces the amount of required operating force and improves operation.

The slipper clutch partially disengages when downshifting to decelerate to mitigate the effect of engine braking. By helping to limit rear tire hopping and providing smoother deceleration, this function enables the rider to shift down with greater confidence and maintain better control.

The new exhaust pipe complies with noise regulations and, while featuring a double-wall muffler design that helps protect the rider’s legs from extreme heat, also contributes to a slim body profile. Both the exhaust pipe and muffler adopt stainless steel, which helps to greatly enhance the overall visual appeal and look of quality.

The exhaust system also features a dual-stage catalytic converter* and newly added O2 sensor that help satisfy Euro 5+ emissions standards.

The engine is fed by a 42 mm bore electronic-controlled throttle body. This helps achieve a better balance between idling speed control and power output characteristics, while also contributing to compliance with Euro 5+ emissions standards. Another benefit of the finer control it provides is more controllable behaviour that can be customized to best match the type of ride and preferred riding style for any given outing.

Every aspect of the new air cleaner box design, down to its capacity and outlet shape, aims to reduce intake air resistance, while the length of the inlet tube and diameter of its mouth are designed to achieve the best balance between intake air noise and output feeling to generate sharp throttle response and powerful low-speed torque.

As with the current model, the lid is positioned on the side for easy filter replacement.

Light, strong and flexible, the tapered aluminium handlebars fitted with half-waffle grips provide a solid grip, positive control, and help reduce fatigue by absorbing shocks from rough surfaces.

The mirrors adopt a tough-looking new parallelogram design.

DR-Z4SM’s 17-inch front and rear wheels are shod with Dunlop SPORTMAX Q5A tires that provide grip and durability in both wet and dry conditions.

Single front (DR-Z4S: 270 mm, DR-Z4SM: 310 mm) and 240 mm rear disc brakes provide sure and stable stopping power. Axial mount calipers provide resistance to vibration when riding over rough terrain.

Optimized seat width, improves comfort when riding on rough terrain or trails, and the seat’s highly durable design supports the rider well when shifting body weight.

The fuel tank features a flush, light-weight design with a capacity of 8.7 litres.

Wider footpegs provide solid footing and stability when negotiating trails, whether standing or sitting, and also enhance the model’s tough image.

Fitted with an aluminium under cover as standard equipment that protects the engine and matches the model’s tough image.

The newly designed LCD instrument panel is both light and compact. It features a clearly legible display that not only supplies critical real-time operating status information, but also keeps you informed of the settings for the respective on-board systems.

The ergonomic switch layout maximizes operating ease so you can access all controls while remaining focused on riding. Select modes or change settings for each of the advanced electronic rider assist systems by simply operating the MODE and UP/DOWN switches on the left handlebar.

Both the high and low beams are incorporated into one bright LED projector headlight that is compact, light and durable. LED position lights integrated right into the turn signal assemblies help round out the functional yet minimalistic lighting scheme.

The rear combination light and license plate light both employ compact LEDs that create a highly visible and striking lighting scheme, contributing to the futuristic appeal of the tough, modern styling.