- The DR-Z400S comes with a compact design, 398cc, DOHC, liquid-cooled, dry-sump engine that produces strong low-rpm power. Its compact 4-valve cylinder head features 36mm intake valves and 29mm exhaust valves.

- Suzuki Composite Electrochemical Materials (SCEM) cylinder for durability, weight reduction and superior heat transfer.
 

- Digitally mapped DC-CDI system monitors throttle position/engine rpm and adjusts ignition timing to maintain efficient combustion.

- Forged aluminum piston is 10 percent lighter than a cast piston and receives additional oil-cooling to the piston crown through a crankcase oil jet.

- A Mikuni™ 36mm carburetor fed by a 6-liter airbox provides smooth throttle response. The left side cover has quick-release fasteners for easy access to the air filter.

- Electric start system provides convenient operation and features a lightweight starter motor and a compact 6.5 amp maintenance-free battery.

- Magnesium-alloy clutch, magneto and cam covers contribute to weight reduction.

-  A compact 5-speed transmission utilizes a cable-operated clutch with separate outer cover for simplified clutch maintenance.

- A narrow chrome-moly steel frame is torsionally strong with minimal weight. The backbone tube, front down tube, and steering head gussets form the dry-sump engine oil tank. A bolt-on aluminum subframe helps reduce weight and simplify maintenance.

- Long travel, 49mm cartridge-style forks feature adjustable compression/rebound damping and adjustable spring preload for all types of on/off-road terrain.

- A fully adjustable progressive linkage rear shock absorber (spring preload/compression damping adjustable) and aluminum swingarm for precise rear wheel control.

-  Sure stopping power is supplied by a 250mm front disc brake with dual-piston caliper, and a 220mm rear disc brake with a single-piston caliper.

• Compact digital instrument cluster with speedometer, odometer, twin-trip meters with addition/subtraction capability, clock, timer and stopwatch functions.

•  On-road legal lighting with bright 60/55 watt H4 halogen headlight, compact tail/stoplight, lightweight, rubber-mounted turn signals and horn.

• A pouch on the rear fender carries tool kit and the owner's manual.