2004 Suzuki RM Review

The 2004 Suzuki RM was a standard motorcycle that Japanese automaker Suzuki released for the 2004 model year. The bike notably has five models: the RM 65, RM 85, RM 85L, RM 125, and RM 250.

The numerical suffix for each model of the 2004 Suzuki RM corresponds with its engine displacement. Each bike has a two-stroke, liquid-cooled, single-cylinder engine with a reed intake valve train configuration. However, the engine displaces at 65 cubic centimeters (cc) on the RM 65, 85 cc on the RM 85, 125 cc on the RM 125, and 249 cc on the RM 250. The engine is harnessed to a manual transmission: a five-speed gearbox on the RM 250 and a six-speed one on the other models.

There is quite a wide variance of physical statistics for the 2004 Suzuki RM due to the several models available. The RM 250, however, is the largest of them all: with a dry weight of 212 pounds (96 kilograms) and a wheelbase of 57.9 inches. Also, at 37.4 inches (950 millimeters), its seat is set higher than others. At the other end of the spectrum is the RM 65, which has a curb weight of 125.7 pounds (57 kg), a wheelbase of 44.1 inches, and seat height of 29.9 inches (760 mm).

Only available in a Champion Yellow finish, the 2004 Suzuki RM uses a steel frame for a solid, sturdy build. Side covers, front and rear fenders, and fork guards adorn the bike, and it sports a decal kit replete with brand names: from the bike manufacturer to the company behind the suspension (e.g., Showa at the front). Seating, provided by a one-piece vinyl unit, is big enough for just one person: the driver. A pair of multi-spoke aluminum wheels is on each 2004 Suzuki RM, which varies in size depending on the model. The RM 65 has the smallest wheels (and tires), with 14-inch wheels at the front and 12-inch wheels at the back. The RM 250 has the largest wheels and tires: 21 inches at the front and 19 inches at the back. Hydraulic disc brakes on the wheels provide great stopping power, certainly over ones with all-wheel drum brakes or front-disc-brake/rear-drum-brake layouts.

The 2004 Suzuki RM is an adequately equipped standard bike: no more, no less. However, for the most of what it has to offer, the RM 250 is greatly recommended.