Suzuki’s DR-Z4S returns for 2026 with exactly zero changes—no surprises there. But this year, there’s a new variant: the DR-Z4S+, which adds a handful of accessories from the Genuine Suzuki parts catalog along with a modest price bump.

What You Get

• Floppy-style hand guards (catalog price: $79.95)
• Aluminum skid plate replacing the standard metal engine guard (catalog price: $299.95)
• Rear brake disc guard (catalog price: $39.95)
• Front brake rotor cover (catalog price: $49.95)

With an MSRP of $9,299, the DR-Z4S+ costs $300 more than the base model ($8,999) and offers a $168.80 savings over buying the accessories individually from the catalog. Installation is included, which adds some value too—especially for riders who prefer turnkey upgrades.

A Good Value? 

While the bundled accessories may offer some additional protection, they’re not exactly premium components. There are aftermarket skid plates available in the $130 range that probably offer better coverage than Suzuki’s factory option, and full-wrap hand guards around the $75 range that provide superior lever protection in a fall compared to the Suzuki floppy-style guards.

The brake disc protectors are arguably the most compelling part of the package. They’re reasonably priced and currently the only ones we see available for the DR-Z4S. Still, we’d like to see venting in the front rotor cover for improved airflow.

If you cherry-picked the Suzuki disc guards from the Genuine Accessories catalog and sourced better hand guards and a skid plate from the aftermarket, you’d land near the same price point—with arguably better protection. But that doesn’t include installation, which some might consider a hassle.

Even so, the new ‘Plus’ variant seems to come up short on providing a clear value. What Suzuki could have done to make this a better accessory package is include their 12-volt power port ($79.95) and rear rack ($279.95). With these additional accessories, priced at a $400 premium over the base model, the DR-Z4S+ package would offer real adventure-ready utility and a stronger value.

That doesn’t make it a compelling offer though. Considering the base model’s MSRP of $8,999 was already raising eyebrows last year, an overall price drop would be a better move than introducing a pricier model variant. Other than not getting a 6th gear, the high price was one of the biggest roadblocks for potential customers interested in upgrading to the new DR-Z4S.

Once there was a time when the DRZ had this category nearly to itself, but competition is now fierce. With solid offerings from the Kawasaki KLX300S, Honda CRF300L, and KTM 390 Enduro R—all hovering around $5,500—Suzuki’s pricing strategy feels increasingly out of step, especially when you realize just a few years ago you could snag a new DR-Z400S for $6,599. 

Looking at the $9,299 MSRP of the new “Plus” model, you could buy a Honda CRF450RL dual sport for just $800 more that already comes with hand guards, skid plate and disc protectors, plus it has better suspension, more power, a sixth gear, and weighs 44-pounds less (even without the ‘Plus Package’ accessories). Suzuki might argue they have superior electronic rider aids, but it seems like that’s an upgrade many riders were not asking for.

Signs Of Trouble?

The lack of aftermarket support for the new DR-Z4S raises some interesting questions. The previous DR-Z400S was one of the most accessorized bikes around. In contrast, a year into the DR-Z4S’s release, accessory makers have been notably quiet. It’s unclear whether that’s due to low demand, uncertainty about the model’s longevity, or simply a slower rollout. Either way, the response—or lack of one—suggests the aftermarket is still waiting to see if sales volume will warrant the investment.

Perhaps it’s time Suzuki re-evaluates its pricing on their new dual sport. There could be some relief at the dealership level as well in the form of sales or incentives. In Los Angeles, we’re already seeing 2025 DR-Z4S models discounted by up to $1,600. At $7,399, the bike starts to look a lot more appealing. Let us know what you think about the new DR-Z4S+ in the comments!

Author: Rob Dabney

Rob Dabney started a lifelong obsession with motorcycles at the age of 15 when he purchased his first bike – a 1982 Honda MB5. Through his 20’s and 30’s he competed in off-road desert races, including the Baja 250, 500 and 1000. Eventually, his proclivity for exploration led him to dual sport and adventure riding. Rob’s never-ending quest to discover what’s around the next bend has taken him on Adventures in Latin America, Africa, Europe, Asia, and throughout the American West. As a moto journalist, he enjoys inspiring others to seek adventure across horizons both near and far.