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When you look closely you can tell this isn’t an all-new engine, but many updates inside can be found on the 2018 Suzuki RM-Z450.
Suzuki Motor Corporation has finally announced their long awaited 2018 RM-Z450. Since 2008, Suzuki has only made a couple small refinements to their chassis, but for the most part the Suzuki has remained unchanged. However, for 2018 the Suzuki RM-Z450 has been completely re-vamped. Suzuki’s product concept for the new model was three keywords: Run (Increased Engine Performance). Turn (Higher Cornering Performance). Stop (Better Braking Force). These three target points were specifically on the minds of Suzuki engineers (in Japan) when testing the 2018 RM-Z450. Each engineer wanted not only to enhance the performance on the track, but create a more modern look for the new generation Suzuki. We will be able to swing a leg over this beautiful new yellow machine in early August, so stay tuned for a complete test write up and podcast on the 2018 Suzuki RM-Z450. In the meantime here are some nuggets of information for you guys and gals to feast upon. Also, look for a podcast up soon (before the “First Ride”) up on pulpmx.com with Suzuki’s Chris Wheeler as we talk about the 2018 Suzuki RM-Z450.
Engine Updates:
- New Cylinder Port head Shape
- Larger Air Filter
- Change of Injector Direction
- Change Of Outlet Tube Shape
- Higher Fuel Pump Pressure
- Rib Added To Piston
- Traction Management
- Suzuki Holeshot Assist Control
Thank you Suzuki for listening to the consumer and going with a coil spring fork! Showa provides the suspension on the Suzuki for 2018.
Chassis/Body Updates And Revisions:
- New Lightweight Frame
- New Swingarm
- New Showa BFRC (Balance Free Rear Cushion) Rear Shock
- New Showa Spring 49mm Fork
- Updated Renthal Fatbar (bend)
- New Battlecross Bridgestone X30 Tires
- New Aggressive Character Line (Bike Is Narrower) “Beak DNA”
- New Fuel Tank (Aluminum To Resin And Increased Capacity 6.2 to 6.3L)
- New Seat (less weight)
- Updated Rear Master Cylinder
- Lighter Top Triple Clamp
- Lighter Front/Rear Wheel
- New Chain Guide (More Durability)
- Larger Front Brake Rotor
The Showa BFRC (Balance Free Rear Cushion) shock is something we have only seen on factory team’s race machines. Showa says that the BFRC stabilizes the pressure balance, improves damping responsiveness and can operate under low pressure which can reduce friction.
2018 RM-Z450 Specs:
| Ground Clearance | 13.0 inches |
| Seat Height | 37.8 inches |
| Wheelbase | 58.3 inches |
| Overall Height | 49.6 inches |
| Overall Width | 32.9 inches |
| Overall Length | 85.6 inches |
| Curb Weight | 247 lbs |
The larger air box/cleaner also has a straighter shot via airboot for increased power output.
Suzuki went bigger with their front rotor and we approve of that decision.
The updated Suzuki Holeshot Assist Control helps aid in slippery and hard pack conditions.
The re-designed 2018 Suzuki RM-Z450 will be available for us to test early August.
Suzuki’s new bodywork is sleeker, narrower and keeps it’s yellow and blue heritage for 2018.
The 2018 Suzuki RM-Z450 is said to hit dealer floors in mid-August.