SUZUKI ADDS ALL-NEW 4-STROKE TO 2005 MOTOCROSS LINE UP
Following the worldwide unveiling of its all-new four-stroke motocross
weapon, the RM-Z450, Suzuki has announced details of its expanded and
updated motocross line-up for 2005.
The all-new four-stroke RM-Z450 joins Suzuki's original four-stroke
motocrosser, the RM-Z250, alongside the enhanced two-stroke range - the
RM250, RM125, RM85, RM85L (Bigwheel) and RM65.
"For Suzuki, the all-new 450cc four-stroke motocrosser is a very exciting
addition to our range, and complements the updated RM-Z250 and two-stroke RM
series," Glyn Griffiths, National Marketing Manager - Motorcycles, Suzuki
Australia said.
"With upgrades across the range in both the two-stroke and four-stroke
machines, Suzuki's development has again raised the standard of motocross
performance.
"Releasing the 2005 motocross line-up, Suzuki is really proud of its
extensive range that caters to all motocross riders from young children to
national-level professional racers."
2005 RM-Z450
Designed and produced by Suzuki, the much-anticipated RM-Z450 features a
powerful four-stroke engine combined with a strong, race-bred chassis and
suspension package, and a range of other innovations, creating the ultimate
open-class four-stroke motocross machine.
The compact 449cc, four-stroke, liquid-cooled, DOHC engine of the RM-Z450 is
only about the same height as the RM250 two-stroke engine and is mounted low
for agile handling.
The all-new RM-Z450 features a range of innovations including the Suzuki
Advanced Sump System (SASS), which positions the crankshaft lower in the
crankcase to reduce the centre of gravity, and the Suzuki Active Vent System
(SAVS), which reduces crankcase pressure.
The key to the Suzuki Advanced Sump System is to divide the crankcases into
two internal compartments, one for the low-mounted crankshaft and one for
the transmission, which doubles as the oil sump.
Super-accurate thin-wall aluminium-alloy castings for the cylinder head,
cylinder and crankcases combine with magnesium-alloy cam, clutch and magneto
covers to reduce weight.
The engine design also benefits from the race-proven technology of Suzuki's
championship-winning GSX-R series, with an oversquare bore x stroke which
makes room for large valves set at a narrow angle in a compact combustion
chamber, improving breathing and combustion efficiency.
Developed in extensive testing, an innovative four-speed transmission works
with the RM-Z450's broad powerband to reduce unnecessary, time-wasting
shifting, as the four-speed proved more efficient and produced faster lap
times in development tests on motocross tracks, as compared to a
conventional five-speed built to handle 450cc-class power.
It is also lighter and exceptionally compact, and allows the transmission
cases to be approximately 30mm narrower than would be required to carry a
conventional five-speed; this allows the clutch to be positioned closer to
the RM-Z450's centreline, and contributing to agile handling.
The RM-Z450 provides the optimum combination of geometry and rigidity,
including a lightweight, twin-spar frame combining aluminium forgings,
extrusions and stampings welded into a single unit.
Equipped with Renthal thick-wall tapered aluminium handlebars and a Renthal
handlebar pad, the relationship between the RM-Z450's handlebars, seat and
footpegs has been carefully developed to improve the riding position and to
centre the combined mass of the rider and the machine.
Made of titanium, the RM-Z450's serrated footpegs are designed to be strong
and provide better grip even in wet conditions.
The unique aluminium rear swingarm is built using thick-wall tapered arms
welded to a cast linkage bracket and forged axle holders.
As well as reducing the shock loading into the frame, the system reduces the
lever ratio relative to rear-wheel travel, making the suspension more
responsive and more progressive, increasing traction over ripples while
still responding smoothly over whoops, large bumps and jumps.
The RM-Z450 has Showa inverted cartridge forks with 22 positions of
compression damping adjustment and 20 positions of rebound damping
adjustment, while the front wheel travel is 310mm.
A Showa piggyback-reservoir rear shock has a 4-turn range of high-speed
compression damping adjustment, 16 positions of low-speed compression
damping adjustment, and 19 positions of rebound damping adjustment.
New aluminium rims and hubs on the RM-Z450 are stronger yet lighter than
conventional designs, with the front rim created from new, higher-strength
aluminium alloy while the front spokes are stepped where they meet the
nipples and the hub, further reducing weight.
The Suzuki RM-Z450 will be available in Australia towards the end of 2004.
2005 RM-Z250
Suzuki's popular RM-Z250 has been honed and revised for 2005 with practical
modifications and improvements to make the already successful four-stroke
production racer even more daunting to its competitors.
The compact 249cc, four-stroke, liquid-cooled, DOHC powerplant features an
advanced 4-valve cylinder head design with narrow valve angles and titanium
valves.
Main updates in the engine department include straighter exhaust ports and
extended centre rib for intake ports which improve low-to-mid-range engine
response.
Keihin FCR37 carburettor equipped with a Throttle Position Sensor (TPS) is
linked to the magneto powered digital CDI ignition system with 3-D ignition
maps that automatically adjust engine idle speed, delivering the best timing
based on rpm and throttle position.
Suzuki's original four-stroke motocrosser now features 40mm longer radiators
for increased cooling capacity and a new, separate oil filter cover means
that the oil filter can be replaced without disturbing the water pump cover
or draining the radiator.
The RM-Z250's five-speed transmission features a ratchet-type shift
mechanism designed for light shifting effort, with shot-peened third and
fourth gears for increased durability.
An on-the-fly clutch lever adjuster has been added with a new clutch plate
design and improved clutch spring material for better overall clutch action
and feel.
The Suzuki's semi-dry-sump lubrication system features separate oil chambers
for the transmission and crankshaft using the transmission as the oil sump,
allowing low crankshaft placement, reduced engine height and a low centre of
gravity.
The lightweight, perimeter-type frame with D-shaped upper spars contributes
to a slim design and improved riding position and mobility, while for 2005,
wider handlebar mounting position is incorporated for increased handlebar
strength and bending resistance.
Seat cover material has been improved to offer better rider grip and new
seat foam material included for greater comfort and durability.
Revised suspension system sees the RM-Z250 feature Kayaba 48mm inverted,
bladder-style front fork with special valve system to optimise internal
pressure and damping performance throughout the stroke.
Fitted at the rear is a Kayaba reservoir-type shock absorber with 16-way
adjustable compression and rebound damping, with a rear linkage system that
places the suspension load on the swingarm instead of the frame to reduce
frame weight and improve traction.
A new front brake lever shape offers improved rider feel, while the front
disc brake system consists of a dual-piston caliper with 27mm pistons,
master cylinder with large 11mm piston and thin Kevlar brake line for
reduced weight and progressive brake feel.
The 2005 Suzuki RM-Z250 will be available in Australia in late September,
2004.
2005 RM250
For 2005, Suzuki's two-stroke powerhouse, the RM250, has been thoroughly
modified to enable the 249cc, open-class motocross competitor to crank out
more low-end and mid-range power, with smooth and controllable power
delivery.
The RM250's suspension, both front and rear has been refined, making it more
stable and responsive on tight, technical tracks and smoother on rough, wide
open courses.
With the latest incarnation of its production two-stroke thoroughbred,
Suzuki has shaved weight off parts from top to bottom, making the 2005
machine a true featherweight.
The combustion chamber is redesigned with a reduced squish area that
improves combustion efficiency and throttle response. The upper corners of
the main exhaust ports are raised and the secondary scavenging ports widened
along with exhaust valve timing, which improves power delivery in the
low-to-mid and also mid-to-top-end ranges.
Suzuki has refined its crankcase design with additional internal
reinforcement ribs for added durability, while the new crankshaft main
bearing retainer keeps main bearings in place when crankcase is split for
quicker, easier maintenance.
Crankshaft inertia has increased 3% for the 2005 RM250, offering improved
rear wheel traction control and power delivery.
A new transmission input shaft featuring 18 involute-type splines on clutch
side, plus lighter clutch spring rate combine to provide lighter, more
controllable clutch operation and feel, while the refined kick start lever
and internal components produce easier engine starts.
The RM250 features new titanium footpegs for reduced weight and a revised
seat cover material for improved grip, plus new seat foam for improved
durability.
New aluminium handlebars - more rigid than steel construction to reduce
vibration - include a Suzuki handlebar pad, while re-designed aluminium
mounting spacers are provided for easier installation and more secure
mounting of radiator shrouds, frame covers and fenders.
An updated swingarm design featuring a new bridge tube behind the pivot
section increases rigidity and improved straight-line performance.
Front fork enhancements include the honed internal surface of the inner tube
for smoother fork movement, larger oil capacity above the piston and shim
stack for improved oil low at full travel, improved dust seal, and refined
valve settings improving overall suspension balance.
The RM250's rear shock performance is improved by the larger inner rod
diameter for increased oil flow at full compression and refined valve
settings for better overall suspension balance.
The RM250's lightweight brake system features smaller front brake hose O.D.
and Allen-style brake hose bolts and shorter rear brake hose and hex-style
brake hose bolts for reduced weight.
The master cylinder control rod threads directly to the rear brake pedal
yoke eliminating lock-nut clamp further reduces weight, while the new air
/oil separator added to rear master cylinder offers more stable brake
performance.
The new-model Suzuki RM250 will be available in Australia from late July,
2004.
2005 RM125
Creating yet another legendary motocross weapon, the new 2005-model Suzuki
RM125 shares many of the engine refinements of the RM250 with the emphasis
on making the machine more responsive in both the low-to-mid and
mid-to-top-end ranges.
The compression ratio has been reduced in the redesigned cylinder head which
gives more stable combustion and the exhaust valve timing revised for better
all-round throttle response.
The exhaust valve governor is also changed to compliment the timing changes
and the valves open more gradually, creating a smoother, broader powerband.
A new RM250-style asymmetrical crankshaft provides better rear wheel
traction and increased inertia and the machine now has a brand new Mikuni
TMX38SS carburetor with powerjet and Throttle Position Sensor (TPS): this is
linked directly to the ignition system to automatically adjust the timing to
match the engine performance.
For improved steering head bearing protection the RM125 features a new
steering head cap seal, while its new aluminium handlebars - more rigid than
steel construction - reduce vibration, and include a Suzuki handlebar pad.
The RM125 footpeg position has been moved back 10mm for optimal centre of
gravity and riding feel and includes 10mm shorter gear shift lever and
13.5mm shorter rear brake pedal.
Suzuki's updated swingarm design features a new bridge tube behind the pivot
section for increased rigidity and improved straight-line performance, while
a redesigned chain guide reduces weight.
Improved front fork performance is due to a range of revisions, including
the honed internal surface of the inner tube for smoother fork movement,
larger oil capacity above piston and shim stack for improved oil flow at
full travel, improved dust seal, and refined valve settings for better
overall suspension balance.
At the rear, the shock performance benefits from a larger inner rod diameter
for increased oil flow at full compression and refined valve settings for
better overall suspension balance.
The RM125's braking system incorporates smaller front brake hose O.D. and
Allen-style brake hose bolts at the front and shorter rear brake hose and
hex-style brake hose bolts for reduced weight.
Improved rear brake caliper design provides higher rigidity for more
consistent caliper piston movement and feedback, and more even brake pad
wear, while the new air/oil separator added to rear master cylinder creates
more stable brake performance.
The updated Suzuki RM125 will be available in Australia in late August,
2004.
2005 RM85 / RM85L
Still available in two wheel-size versions, RM85 and RM85L (Bigwheel),
Suzuki's machine of choice in the mini-class features a high-revving,
single-cylinder, two-stroke engine that produces strong peak power and
torque.
In 2005, Suzuki's latest schoolboy RM85 has received a range of revisions
for improved handling and performance.
The 84.7cc, case-reed engine has been refined with the inclusion of new
aluminium exhaust valves - changed from steel to aluminium for more even
expansion rate between valves and the cylinder and more stable flow to
exhaust valve chamber.
An updated exhaust valve governor and link-style exhaust valve actuator
similar to RM125 are utilised for more precise control of exhaust valve
movement and improved throttle response.
The KeihinT PE28 carburetor provides smooth throttle response and is
designed for simplified maintenance.
A new shift drum detent plate shape, higher rate detent spring and needle
bearing added to left side of the shift drum to reduce friction offer
improved gear shift operation, while the knurl-finished gear shift lever tip
provides improved appearance and feel.
Designed for increased rigidity, durability and straight line performance,
the RM85 frame features large diameter tubing in key areas and large front
reinforcement plate, as well as an aluminium swingarm with chain adjustment
system similar to the RM125 and RM250.
New chrome-moly footpegs offer increased durability and improved rider feel.
The Showa 37mm inverted fork featuring cartridge damping system with
fully-adjustable rebound damping and 20-way adjustable compression damping
includes fork guards to protect inner fork tubes.
Revised front fork valve settings offer improved suspension performance and
bottoming resistance, while a larger diameter rear shock cylinder and new
valving give greater rider comfort.
The RM85's overall brake performance is enhanced with the front brake
incorporating a new twin-piston front caliper, larger diameter 220mm brake
rotor, new RM125-type front master cylinder, and lighter weight brake hose.
The rear brake features a more compact and lighter weight rear caliper,
200mm brake rotor, more durable resin-type caliper guard, lighter and
shorter brake hose, and new master cylinder rod/brake lever connection,
while the forged brake and shift pedals are designed with thick
cross-section for more durability.
For an enhanced appearance, the magneto cover styling, fuel tank, radiator
shroud, seat and number plates benefit from design and graphics like its big
brothers, the RM125 and RM250.
To fit a variety of young riders, the RM85L (Bigwheel) is suitable for
taller riders, with 19 and 16-inch front and rear wheels versus the standard
RM85's 17 and 14-inch front and rear wheels.
The 2005 Suzuki RM85 and RM85L models will be available in Australia towards
the end of September, 2004.
2005 RM65
Suzuki's lightweight 65cc motocross model is designed for young riders
interested in kick-starting their racing career.
The high-revving, two-stroke, liquid-cooled engine of the RM65 produces
strong mid-range torque and smooth throttle response.
Featuring an electrofusion-plated cylinder which is lighter and more durable
than a steel-sleeved cylinder with superior heat transfer capability.
The exhaust-port bridge is convex, reducing scuffing for longer piston life,
and the cylinder itself is bolted directly to the crankcase without cylinder
studs for increased durability.
Suzuki RM65 features a durable exhaust system with repackable silencer and
wide o-ring seals for easy installation and reliable exhaust sealing.
The RM65's six-speed transmission features needle bearing-mounted clutch
release shaft and shift drum, plus hard anodised shift forks for smooth
shifting and increased durability.
As a junior motocross machine, the RM65 chassis is designed to grow with the
rider and can accommodate a range of rider heights and weights.
The seat height is adjustable optional-length link rods available in 1mm
length increments (each 1mm link rod change raises or lowers seat height by
2mm).
Flat handlebar shape accommodates a wide range of riders, plus tapered
steering head bearings help reduce steering effort, while the rugged,
serrated cast-steel footpegs offer solid grip in wet conditions.
The RM65 features a slim fuel tank, seat and bodywork designed for stylish
appearance and rider manoeuvrability.
A lightweight steel alloy, reinforced frame features a detachable left seat
rail for simplified air filter and suspension maintenance
Showa 33mm leading-axle front forks provide 210mm of wheel travel and
adjustable rebound damping to tune the suspension to match track conditions
and riding style, while the link-type rear suspension features adjustable
rebound damping and delivers 240mm of wheel travel.
The 2005-model Suzuki RM65 will be available in Australia in late July,
2004.
The 2005 range of Suzuki RM and RM-Z motocross machines will be available in
the traditional Suzuki Champion Yellow, and pricing will be announced closer
to their respective arrival dates.