Can you green lane a Suzuki DR-Z4S?

Holloway ratings

Four separate scores, not one blended number, so you can see what's actually driving it.

Full specs

What we actually found

Owners describe the modernized DR-Z4S as the dual-sport upgrade riders waited decades for. Riders report that the new ride-by-wire fuel injection and engine eliminate cold-start issues, delivering crisp, linear low-end tractor pull. Combined with 280/296mm KYB suspension and switchable traction control in a 151kg package, owners rate it as one of the most complete all-round green laners available.

Pros for green laning

• Modern fuel injection and electronics: upgraded with ride-by-wire EFI and Suzuki Traction Control with a dedicated Gravel mode, plus switchable rear/dual ABS.
• Competition-level KYB suspension: long-travel, fully adjustable suspension (280mm front / 296mm rear) and 300mm ground clearance handle hard hits and washouts easily.
• Punchy 398cc single: delivers 38hp and 37Nm with crisp low-end throttle response, tractor-pulling through deep mud without bogging down.
• True dual-sport weight: at 151kg wet, it maintains the agile, flickable trail characteristics essential for technical UK single-track and ruts.

Cons and limitations

• Tall 920mm seat height: high perch can make footing on uneven, slippery cambers intimidating for shorter riders.
• Small 8.7-litre fuel tank: real-world range is roughly 120-130 miles, requiring regular fuel stops on long cross-country trail days.
• 5-speed transmission: retains a 5-speed gearbox, meaning highway transit sections at 70mph cause high engine revs and vibration.
• Minimalist instrumentation: basic LCD dash provides essential data but lacks extensive touring information or integrated navigation mounting.

Based on manufacturer specifications and independent motorcycle press reviews.