Suzuki has revealed its 2024 RM-Z motocross models in the USA. There has been no official UK news yet. And sadly, as we expected, it’ still the kickstart version. The USA also gets a special “RM Army” version that doesn’t come to the UK. The press information says:

Coming off a resurgent 2023 Supercross season, Suzuki’s RM-Z450 and RM-Z250 remain a weapon of choice for riders at all levels.

Delivering amateur and pro racers a solid combination of performance, value, handling, and attractive styling, the RM-Z line continues to be a viable motocross option for 2024 and represents, perhaps the industry’s strongest value proposition. And with the return of the RM Army Edition, RM-Z riders will have even more to look forward to.

RM-Z450

Legendary rider Ken Roczen proved the RM-Z450 remains the champion’s choice. The RM-Z450’s sleek, race-ready appearance, strong engine and nimble chassis provide the effective power and precise handling required to continue Suzuki’s race-winning legacy. It is no surprise Roczen finished the just-concluded AMA Supercross season tied for third in the championship with an event win and multiple podium finishes.

The RM-Z450 epitomizes Suzuki’s Winning Balance philosophy of “RUN, TURN, and STOP” with strong brakes helping provide superb stopping power, a wide spread of engine muscle with high peak power; and a strong, light, and agile chassis allowing the RM-Z450 to remain the class standard for cornering performance.

Tuning the electronic fuel injection and ignition systems for maximum performance is easy thanks to Suzuki’s smartphone-based MX-Tuner 2.0 and proven fuel-coupler system; included with each 2024 RM-Z450.

2024 SUZUKI RM-Z450 KEY FEATURES

            •          Fuel-injected engine delivers great throttle response delivering high peak power.

            •          Evolved traction management system helps the bike hook up.

            •          Suzuki Holeshot Assist Control (S-HAC) gets you out front.

            •          Light, aluminum frame and swingarm balance lightness with strength.

            •          Chassis dimensions blend nimble handling with stability.

            •          Coil spring fork provides impressive performance and easy tuning.

            •          Showa BFRC (Balance Free Rear Cushion) shock settings deliver remarkable damping response.

            •          Bridgestone X30 tires bring outstanding grip.

            •          Large 270mm front brake rotor helps increase stopping power and feel.

            •          Compact rear master cylinder design helps prevent mud from collecting on it, and from snagging on rider’s boots.

            •          Narrow cockpit lets rider move with ease for maximum racing performance.

            •          Suzuki’s MX-Tuner 2.0 is supplied, providing quick fuel injection and ignition tuning through an easy-to-use smartphone application.

            •          Fuel couplers are also included for quick and easy EFI tuning.

The RM Army Edition is back for 2024.  This kit is comprised of a special set of components making 2024 RM-Zs even more race-ready, right out of the gate.

New for 2024, the RM Army Edition kit includes an exclusive full-system exhaust from Pro Circuit. The new system has a Stainless-Steel Head Pipe, a Titanium Silencer Shell, and a Carbon Fiber End Cap wrapped with a custom RM Army Edition decal. Also included is a fresh, new RM Army graphics package from Throttle Syndicate further enhancing the RM-Z’s styling.

All 2024 model RM-Z250’s and RM-Z450’s purchased through September 30th, 2023, will include an RM Army Edition Kit free of charge. RM Army Edition kits will be shipped directly to the selling Suzuki dealer after a rider purchases a new 2024 RM-Z motocross model. Combining this kit with the adjustability that Suzuki’s MX-Tuner 2.0 provides, the RM-Z reinforces itself even more as a worthy competitor.

2024 SUZUKI RM-Z250

The 2024 RM-Z250 remains the choice of wise professionals and privateers everywhere, as this agile bike mirrors the sleek, race-ready RM-Z450 with a flexible engine and responsive chassis producing exceptional performance. Using Suzuki’s “RUN, TURN, and STOP” philosophy, factory engineers have made the RM-Z250 a formidable competitor for 2024.

Fed by a dual injector EFI system, a centre-port cylinder head, and an AMA-compliant exhaust system, the RM-Z250’s four-stroke, four-valve engine delivers strong, usable power through the entire rev range.

The RM-Z250 has an enduring reputation as the best-handling 250 on the track. The twin-spar aluminium frame and hydro-formed swingarm carry a KYB suspension using a coil spring fork and a rear shock with four-way damping force adjustment. Strong brakes and ergonomically shaped bodywork help the rider manoeuver the RM-Z250 as it carves up the racetrack.

Tuning the RM-Z250’s fuel injection and ignition for maximum performance is easy thanks to Suzuki’s smartphone-based MX-Tuner 2.0 and proven fuel-coupler system. Suzuki’s Winning Balance is on display with 2024 RM-Z250 as it sets its own high standard for cornering performance.

The 2024 Suzuki RM-Z450 manufacturer’s suggested retail price is $8099.

2024 SUZUKI RM-Z250 KEY FEATURES

            •          Dual-injected engine delivers excellent throttle response and peak power.

            •          KYB coil spring fork and shock have efficient spring rates and damping force settings.

            •          Aggressive Suzuki race styling and race-ready ergonomics

            •          Centre-port cylinder head increases output and throttle response.

            •          Dual fuel injector system boosts high rpm power.

            •          Traction management system helps the bike hook up.

            •          Suzuki Holeshot Assist Control (S-HAC) gets you out front.

            •          Coil spring KYB fork provides outstanding performance and easy tuning.

            •          KYB rear shock and linkage deliver remarkable smoothness.

            •          Race-ready, high-grip Dunlop MX33 tires

            •          Large-diameter front brake helps increase stopping power and feel.

            •          Compact rear master cylinder design helps prevent mud from collecting on it and from catching on the rider’s boots.

            •          Aggressive styling from the championship calibre RM-Z450

            •          Narrow cockpit helps the rider move with ease for maximum racing performance.

            •          Suzuki’s MX-Tuner 2.0 is supplied, providing quick fuel injection and ignition tuning through the easy-to-use smartphone application.

            •          Fuel couplers are also included for quick and easy EFI tuning.

As part of the programme, discount is available on any Suzuki used in competition, including GSX-R1000s, 750s, 600s, and even the GSX-R125, as well as SV650s, Bandit 600s, plus four-stroke RM-Z and two-stroke RM motocross machines.

15% discount is available on all orders over £150, and includes everything from wheels, handlebars and other chassis components, to pistons, rings and other engine hardware.

Jacob Lewis, Suzuki GB’s aftersales customer retention manager, said, “Racing still forms an important part of the Suzuki DNA, and we know there are many competitors that choose to race Suzuki products in a range of series and championships in the UK. We want to be able to support those individuals, regardless of whether they’re competing in the British Superbike Championship or British Motocross Championship paddocks, or racing SV650s and Bandits at club level. Engines require maintenance, and, unfortunately, crashes happen, and we’re pleased to be able to relaunch the Race Parts Programme to help keep Suzukis on the grid.”

To take advantage of the discount, ACU licence holders must present their valid ACU licence at the point of purchase through their nearest authorised Suzuki dealership.

RM-Z450
The 2023 RM-Z450 remains the champion’s choice, as its sleek, race-ready appearance, strong engine, and nimble chassis continue the Suzuki tradition of extraordinarily precise handling and engaging performance. 

The RM-Z450 epitomizes Suzuki’s Winning Balance philosophy of optimizing “RUN, TURN, and STOP” with strong brakes for controlled stopping power, a widespread engine muscle with high peak power, and a strong, light, and more nimble chassis that remains the class standard for cornering performance. 

Tuning the electronic fuel injection and ignition systems for maximum performance is easy thanks to Suzuki’s smartphone-based MX-Tuner or proven fuel-coupler system that is included with each 2023 RM-Z450.

The Champion Yellow bodywork is enhanced with a graphics package that features distinctive striping and Suzuki logos.

2023 RM-Z450MSRP $8,999

RM-Z250
The choice of wise professionals and privateers everywhere, the 2023 RM-Z250 is ready for battle. The agile RM-Z250 combines the sleek, race-ready appearance of the RM-Z450 with a versatile engine and responsive chassis to deliver superior performance. Using Suzuki’s “RUN, TURN, and STOP” philosophy, factory engineers have made the RM-Z250 a formidable competitor. 

The RM-Z250 has always set the standard as the best handling 250 on the track. Fed by a dual injector EFI system, a center-port cylinder head, and an AMA-compliant exhaust, the RM-Z250’s engine delivers strong, usable power through the entire rev-range. 

The twin-spar aluminum frame and hydro-formed swingarm carry a KYB-supplied suspension that includes a coil spring fork and a shock with four-way damping force adjustment. Strong brakes and ergonomically shaped bodywork help keep the rider in control as the RM-Z250 carves up the racetrack. 

Tuning the fuel injection and ignition for maximum performance is easy thanks to Suzuki’s smartphone-based MX-Tuner and proven fuel-coupler system. Suzuki’s Winning Balance is on display with the 2023 RM-Z250 as it maintains its high standard for cornering performance. 

The Suzuki Champion Yellow bodywork is enhanced with distinctive striping and logo graphics.

RM Army Edition Promotion
When you purchase a new 2023 RM-Z you will receive free RM Army Edition items that will make your new RM-Z even more battle-ready, with a race-spec Yoshimura full exhaust system and an exclusive RM Army graphics kit from Throttle Syndicate included at no charge! The RM Army Edition items will turn your new RM-Z into a full attack vehicle in the RM Army, absolutely free*, and includes the following:

•    Yoshimura RS-12 Stainless Full Exhaust w/ Aluminum Muffler (ARV: $779.00).
•    Throttle Syndicate RM Army Edition Graphics Kit (ARV: $149.99) and QR code for you to order discounted matching number plate graphics to complete your RM Army edition with your race number.

The RM-Z450 boasts five Arenacross titles to its name, including winning the last running of the UK indoor series in 2020 thanks to SR75 World Team Suzuki. The team also took one to the podium at this year’s Skegness Beach Race, with Neville Bradshaw behind the ‘bars.

Bradshaw also contested the famous Weston Beach Race aboard a stock RM-Z250, devoid of modifications such as enlarged fuel tank and against more powerful 450 machines, finishing 24th from 1000 starters.

The RM-Z450 was completely redesigned for 2018 with a whole new chassis and more power from its 450cc motor, with the RM-Z250 benefitting from similar treatment a year later. Both bikes use Suzuki’s holeshot assist control and traction management systems.

Suzuki GB marketing manager, Ian Bland, commented, “Both the RM-Z450 and RM-Z250 are competitive in MX1 and MX2 competition, with a plethora of Arenacross titles to back it up and exceptional performances in other events. They are now even more competitively priced ready for the 2022 season, making it a perfect time to make the switch to a new RM-Z this coming season.”

On both machines the standout and yellow, synonymous with Suzuki’s off-road activity, is complemented by black radiator shrouds, white number boards, blue-topped seat, and retro-inspired, chunky RM-Z decals.

In 2020 the RM-Z450 picked up its fifth Arenacross championship since 2015, with Charles Le Francois winning for UK-based SR75 World Team Suzuki.

The title-winning RM-Z450 was completely redesigned in 2018 with a whole new chassis, making it the first production motocross machine to adopt Showa’s premium, race-proven balance free shock. It also put out more power than its predecessor with improved tumble flow, new intake cam profile, a 30% larger air filter aperture, new throttle body and injector.

The RM-Z250 benefitted from similar treatment a year later, with a new frame, swingarm, and suspension, plus a heavily revised engine for more power and torque. Both bikes get the Suzuki’s holeshot assist control and traction management systems.

For more information on Suzuk’s off-road range, visit https://bikes.suzuki.co.uk/mx/

Included with the 2021 RM-Z250 and RM-Z450 is Suzuki’s MX-Tuner 2.0 that provides the ability to easily adjust the fuel injection and ignition system settings for optional race performance.

Using a smartphone application that wirelessly connects to the MX-Tuner’s compact transceiver, fuel delivery and ignition timing can be quickly changed. The MX-Tuner application can pre-program personalized settings into the ECM that can be activated by plugging in one of the supplied fuel couplers.
Racers and tuners can easily change settings to match performance-related updates. The application can save a number of settings for different tracks or weather conditions, plus settings can be exchanged with other racers.
Real-time engine data and run-time information are accessible to help you stay on top of bike maintenance.

2021 RM-Z450 FEATURES

Strong, Usable Engine Performance.
Great throttle response delivers high peak power.
Evolved traction management system helps the bike hook up.
Suzuki Holeshot Assist Control (S-HAC) gets you out front.
Unmatched Cornering Performance.
Frame and swingarm balance lightness with strength.
Chassis dimensions blend nimble handling with stability.
Coil spring fork provides great performance and easy tuning.
Showa BFRC (Balance Free Rear Cushion) shock settings delivers remarkable and controlled damping response.
Bridgestone X30 tires bring outstanding grip.
Large 270mm front brake rotor increases stopping power and feel
Compact rear master cylinder is designed to prevent mud from collecting on it and from catching on the rider’s boots.
Suzuki’s mobile device-based MX-Tuner 2.0 and proven fuel-coupler system.

The RM-Z250 returns with updated graphics for 2021, as well as the ability to now tune the electronic fuel injection, and ignition system for maximum performance, thanks to Suzuki’s mobile device-based MX-Tuner 2.0 and proven fuel-coupler system that are included with each 2021 RM-Z250 and RM-Z450. Now you can easily tune your motorcycle to suit track conditions or your riding preference from the convenience of your personal device. The RM-Z250 has always set the standard as the best handling 250 on the track.

The twin-spar aluminium frame and hydro-formed swingarm carry a KYB-supplied suspension that includes a coil spring fork and a shock with four-way damping force adjustment. Strong brakes and ergonomically shaped bodywork that helps keep the rider in control as the RM-Z250 carves up the racetrack.

2021 RM-Z250 FEATURES

Centre-port cylinder head increases output and throttle response.
Dual fuel injector system boosts high rpm power.
The traction management system helps the bike hook up.
Suzuki Holeshot Assist Control (S-HAC) gets you out front.
Exceptional Cornering Performance.
Frame and swingarm balances lightness with strength.
Engine placement and mounting aid chassis’ nimble handling.
Coil spring KYB fork provides outstanding performance and easy tuning.
KYB rear shock and linkage deliver remarkable control.
Race-ready Dunlop MX33 tires.
Large-diameter front brake increases stopping power and feel.
Compact rear master cylinder is designed to prevent mud from collecting on it and from catching on the rider’s boots.

The RM-Z450 – which has won five out of the last six Arenacross Pro 450 class championships, the most recent coming this year when Charles Le Francois lifted the title for SR75 Suzuki – is now available for just £5,999, while the RM-Z250 costs £5,899.

Both bikes boast the latest holeshot assist control system, which assesses throttle position and gear selection and then adjusts ignition timing to suit for better launches once the gate drops, as well as an advanced traction management system, whereby the ECU adjusts ignition timing and the amount of fuel injected into the engine based on throttle position, engine speed, and gear position, for optimum traction.

Suzuki GB’s head of motorcycles, Jonathan Martin, commented, “We’ve been seeing tracks reopen across the country and we know that many people are keen to get out and get riding again this season. This offer now makes it easier and more affordable for riders to put the best RM-Z450 or RM-Z250 there’s ever been behind the start gate, and focus on grabbing the holeshot.”

Way back before the internet, the only way motocross fans got to learn details about new bikes was from magazines. And often just the adverts in them. Over the years, there have been some gloriously memorable adverts, and some shockers, too! In the first of a new monthly series, we take a look at some of the best and most cool adverts from the major bike manufacturers, and also clothing and kit makers too.

With a 2017 Suzuki on the cover this month, we thought it only fitting to kick off the series with the yellow bikes. Which, as many know, started out in Suzuki’s corporate blue before going to yellow to honour the national colours of Belgium thanks to its riders Roger De Coster, Sylvain Geboers and Joel Robert. So let’s take a look at some of the classy ads from Suzuki.

THE 1970S

We have to start with the awesome work of art at the top of the page, explaining the glorious high-tech details of the 1976 Suzuki RM125A. Complete with up-swept exhaust rather than it going under the motor, steel handlebars and around eight inches of suspension travel. All in a very classy advert that would look cool on a print on the wall! Check out some of Suzuki’s other 1970s ads…

THE 1980S

It was the decade of the biggest changes in motocross. Bikes started off in 1980 as twin-shock, air-cooled, drum-baked dinosaurs and very quickly turned into single-shock, water-cooled, drum-braked beasts with powervalves and cartridge forks. And Suzuki’s early watercoolers set the standard!

THE 1990S

In comparison to the 1980s, the 90s was a decade of fine-tuning the lightweight two-stroke for Suzuki. Although by the very end of the 1990s, the writing started to appear on the wall for smokers as Yamaha unveiled the YZF four-bangers, it took Suzuki at least another half a decade to get in on the act, and then only in a joint venture with Kawasaki. And that didn’t last long. The 1990s saw Suzuki do what everyone else did, and swop to upside down forks. Then at the end of the decade they went back to conventional style forks. But ti wasn’t for long, as upside down forks – like those of today – were simply better!

First published – MotoHead Issue 5 – April 2017

Suzuki’s RM-Z450 is no stranger to success; Russian ace Bobryshev and his Lombard Express Suzuki team took wins and podium finishes all season on the new-for-2018 machine before lifting the British title last weekend. It has also claimed the last four Arenacross titles, with Cedric Soubeyras taking the 2018 crown after Thomas Ramette had won the last three championships back-to-back with SR75 World Team Suzuki. 

At this weekend’s Weston Beach Race former World Enduro Champion and Weston winner David Knight will again be aiming for victory when he campaigns an SR75 World Team Suzuki-prepared RM-Z450. The team will also field its two development programme riders, Howard Wainwright and Luke Oldfield, on a pair of RM-Z250 machines.

The 2018 RM-Z450 boasts an all new chassis and engine – designed for weight-loss, improved handling and a boost in power across the rev-range – plus the latest generation Suzuki Holeshot Assist and traction management systems.

For more information on Suzuki’s motocross range or to find your nearest dealership and take advantage of the £1200 off offer while stocks last, click here.