2008 Suzuki RM-Z450. December 2007
The first and only mass production motocross machine in the world to feature fuel injection, Suzuki has opened the door to a whole new phase in motocross design with the introduction of the revolutionary, new RM-Z450.
"The new Suzuki RM-Z450 leads the way into an exciting new era of motocross racing by incorporating advanced fuel injection technology to yet again establish the Suzuki brand as a leader in the global motorcycling industry," Perry Morison, General Manager, Motorcycles, Suzuki Australia said."In addition to revolutionising motocross engine technology, Suzuki engineers have redesigned the chassis, suspension and braking package to deliver incredible handling, power and all-round performance, ensuring Suzuki riders are equipped to dominate." Drawing on the expertise gained with race-bred fuel injection systems for the legendary Suzuki GSX-R road race machines and the championship-winning Quad Racer 450 ATV, Suzuki has now applied leading-edge technology to engineering the new RM-Z450.
Suzuki engineers have also used experience from developing Ricky Carmichael's championship winning RM-Z450 to redesign the 2008 model's chassis, suspension and brakes, offering sharper handling, smoother suspension performance and more powerful braking.Finishing the all new motocross package, Suzuki's completely restyled RM-Z450 has hot new looks, with sleek, functional, aerodynamic bodywork. Powered by a 449cc, four-stroke, single-cylinder, liquid cooled, DOHC, 4-valve engine, the RM-Z450 features a new Electronic Fuel Injection system which offers better roll on power and improved low-to-mid range power.The RM-Z450 incorporates a battery less internal fuel pump system which provides stable pressure delivery to operate the fuel injection and utilises a 43mm Keihin throttle body specifically designed for motocross.
A sophisticated 18-pin magneto senses feedback on crankshaft position, rotation speed and stroke which is fed back to the ECU to calculate optimum injection and ignition timings. Suzuki's redesigned combustion chamber combined with an NGK iridium spark plug provides better power output and improved low-to-mid range response, while revised intake port angles and cam timing reduce intake resistance and improve efficiency, with the exhaust port and cam timing designed to provide maximum engine performance. Flywheel inertia has been increased on the 2008-model RM-Z450, producing a smoother revving engine and improving the already outstanding acceleration. A semi-dry sump lubrication system features separate oil chambers for the transmission and crankshaft using the transmission as the oil sump to allow low crankshaft placement, reduced engine height and a low centre of gravity.
The new, five-speed, constant mesh transmission on the RM-Z450 offers greater versatility and features a new link-type shifting mechanism.The latest version of Suzuki's flagship motocross machine features a new, lighter frame with improved rigidity balance for incredibly agile handling and unmatched performance over bumps. Chassis modifications include a new slim riding position, creating additional room for the rider to manoeuvre and actively take control of the machine.Further to the revisions on the frame, the wall thickness of the swingarm is now reduced to cut weight and improve performance over bumps. Suspension components and settings have also been designed to ensure the RM-Z450 remains a leading performer on the dirt.
Offering improved shock absorption with minimal weight, the Showa cartridge-style front forks are fully adjustable for rebound and compression settings.At the rear, a new Showa shock absorber with a newly designed damper case, modified internal structure and fully adjustable rebound, compression and pre-load settings provides better feel and increased bottoming resistance.Race inspired, disc-brake wave rotors deliver better cooling performance and increased mud deflection, while newly designed pegs have increased clearance between the mounting bracket and footrest to prevent mud from caking up.Offering optimal cooling performance, the new RM-Z450 includes a new sloped front fender that directs wind to the front number plate which in turn helps guide fresh air to the radiators.New two-tone moulded plastic radiator shrouds give the RM-Z450 a slim feel and stylish look, while redesigned outer louvre plates further improve airflow to the radiators.On the tail end, the rear fender incorporates air intakes on both sides for improved intake efficiency, while tying in a fresh new look. Sporting an edgy, new graphics design, the latest RM-Z450 is also equipped with a gold-coloured chain for a full factory look.
The new Suzuki 2008 RM-Z450 is expected to arrive this month with the RRP to be announced closer to its arrival date.
