Suzuki has lifted the covers off its new 2018 RM-Z450 boasting a complete rebuild from the ground up.
The 2018 RM-Z450 has a fresh new look that enhances Suzuki’s already distinctive design theme. The evolution starts with aggressive “Beak DNA,” which projects a dynamic arrow form extending from the front fender through the radiator shrouds.
As the model enters its 12th year of production, Suzuki has completely revised the RM-Z450 to give its design a fresh new look and to make both the engine and chassis perform better than ever. The end objective was to make it an even more formidable competitor.
Increased Engine Performance
– Greater power output and improved throttle response
– Evolved traction management
– Updated Suzuki Holeshot Assist Control (S-HAC)
Higher Cornering Performance
– All-new frame and swingarm
– Improved coil spring front forks
– New SHOWA Balance Free Rear Cushion (BFRC)
– Renthal Fatbar® aluminum handlebar
– New tires
– New plastic fuel tank, weight reduction by 275g.
Better Braking Force
– Larger front brake disc (250mm ➝ 270mm)
Updates to the intake system help account for greater output at high revs and more powerful torque at low revs. Faster, more controllable throttle response also helps make the 2018 RM-Z450 more competitive than ever. Suzuki Holeshot Assist Control (S-HAC) features an update to the A-mode selection. In addition, the traction management system first introduced in 2008 has been further evolved.
New Frame
New frame and swingarm designs combine with other changes to improve the fundamental performance capabilities of ‘RUN’, ‘TURN’ and ‘STOP’. Particular effort went into improving the aspect of ‘TURN’ performance.
New frame
– Increases fore-aft rigidity and optimises the rigidity.
– Reduces weight by 700g.
– Change of parts structure.
– Improves cornering performance
– Improves its ability to absorb shock
– Improves handling stability
New swingarm
– Optimises rigidity.
– Adoption of thinner material reduces weight by 100g.
– Improves cornering performance
– Improves handling stability
On the new RM-Z450, hexagonal pipe replaces the square pipe used for the seat rail on the current model. This contributes to realising a more rigid and slimmer frame. The change to hexagonal pipe also makes it easier to remove the air filter.
The seat rails are moved closer together and raised to secure adequate air cleaner capacity and to accommodate the new BFRC rear shock. Even so, adjustments to seat thickness avoid raising its height.
New Showa Balance Free Rear Cushion
The 2018 RM-Z450 becomes the first production motocross bike to adopt SHOWA’s new Balance Free Rear Cushion (BFRC).
BFRC – major features
– Stable pressure balance
– Cavitation generation is minimized, improving damping responsiveness
– Easy to make settings
– Operates under low pressure, which reduces friction
– Compression side area of load significantly increased
– Stable damping force in response to minute stroke input
– Improved damping responsiveness
Improved coil spring front forks UPDATE
SHOWA improved coil spring front forks replace the SFFAir forks previously used on the RM-Z450.
While they adopt the same left and right mechanism as previously used on the RM-Z450, with spring dampers on on both forks, each of the components has been redesigned to be larger. The result is a significant increase in basic performance.
– Greater rigidity by larger inner tubes and rod pipes
– More responsive by larger cylinder
– Better feeling of control by larger cylinder
– Ease of daily maintenance
Updated Holeshot Assist
Maintaining proper engine speed prior to the start is important, and this requires extremely fine control over throttle action.
The update to A-mode adds control that makes throttle operation easier and broadens the range of throttle action that still enables the rider to maintain the proper engine speed.
New Rims and Tyres
Lighter wheel rims and new Bridgestone tires maximize grip for improved agility and control in a wide range of track conditions. Finished in durable black for a factory look, the new rims have an optimized cross section, which maintains strength while also reducing critical rotating mass by 70g total.
The all-new 2018 RM-Z450 is expected to arrive in Australia this Spring with final specifications and pricing being confirmed closer to launch.
For further information on the 2018 Suzuki RM-Z450 interested customers should visit their local Suzuki dealer, who can be found through the Dealer Locator on http://www.suzukimotorcycles.com.au/
