The RM-Z450 has been big news in the last few days. First we learnt the bike will form the basis of Suzuki's new hardcore enduro bike (here), followed soon after by a media announcement detailing a host of changes to the 2010 model.
Two years after it was the first mass-produced Japanese motocross machine to adopt fuel-injection, Suzuki has raised the bar again, overhauling the engine and fitting a new frame and suspension.
While the EFI has been refined, the 449cc four-stroke has a new cylinder head, piston, crankshaft, throttle body, camshafts and valve springs.
A new, more rigid, twin-spar aluminium frame is accompanied by a new subframe, linkage and rear swingarm, tracking on fully adjustable Showa suspension with revised spring and damping settings. There is also a new radiator.
"Suzuki's RM-Z450 led the way with fuel-injected technology in motocross racebikes; it changed the face of the sport," Perry Morison, General Manager, Motorcycles, Suzuki Australia said. "On and off the track, other manufacturers have followed our lead, and the 2010 Suzuki RM-Z450 is here to move the goalposts again.
"It's Suzuki's best motocrosser yet, with major engine, chassis and suspension developments, and is ready to continue the winning ways of the RM-Z450."
Available in Suzuki's signature champion yellow livery, the 2001 RM-Z450 is now on sale in Australia.
For pricing, contact your local Suzuki dealer (here).