The 2013 Suzuki RM-Z motocross bike comes in the RM-Z250 and the RM-Z450 models. The first RM-Z bikes were introduced in 2005.
The Suzuki RM-Z450 had the honor of being the first mass-produced Japanese 450cc motocross dirt bike to feature fuel injection. Suzuki postponed the release for its 2008 RM-Z450 so that it could work out some minor issues. With the new fueling technology the bike’s popularity took off. Since 2005, the RM-Z450 has become known for its quick handling and quick starting after a crash or stall.
Suzuki began using a four-speed transmission on the RM-Z but has since switched to a five-speed gearbox in the big Z450. Off-road riders have found the new RM-Z450 easy to convert thanks to the added electrical system of the fuel-injection. The RM-Z450 enjoyed mild success in America until Ricky Carmichael used the Z450 to claim his final pair of titles in 2006 when he snared the AMA Supercross and AMA Motocross championships. He still works with Suzuki to develop future generations of the RM-Z450. Suzuki legend Roger DeCoster is also instrumental in the American racing and development efforts for the Suzuki RM-Z450.
The 2011 and 2012 RM-Z450 earned Cycle World’s Best Motocrosser in its annual Ten Best Bikes awards. The 2012 model’s engine, smooth throttle response, and handling capabilities garnered respect from Cycle World. New for the 2013 model, Suzuki added the innovative Separate Function front Fork (SFF) from Showa. The new front suspension works with an updated twin-spar aluminum frame engineered for an optimum balance between rigidity and high-speed traction, which offers precise handling and smooth performance on tough tracks. This makes the RM-Z450 the only production 450-class motocross bike with this innovative fork design. The 2013 RM-Z450 uses adjustable mapping, which consists of three couplers that support quick adjustment to the fuel setting to suit riding conditions. One coupler contains the stock settings, a second is for a richer fuel setting than the stock, and the third is for a leaner setting. The new Showa Separate Function front Fork (SFF) separates spring and damping functions. The right leg holds the spring, while the left leg incorporates the cartridge assembly to manage damping. The SFF design reduces friction, increases absorption performance, and is lighter weight, which results in smooth performance over a variety of track conditions. The spring pre-load is now adjustable, which allows a wider range of adjustment for all levels of riders.