The 2009 version of Suzuki's fuel-injected RM-Z450 motocrosser
will be unveiled at this week's Australian Motorcycle Expo
Melbourne by dual and defending World and AMA Supercross Champion
Chad Reed.
The first mass-produced motocrosser to feature a fuel injected
engine, the RM-Z450 has revolutionised off-road racing, taking
Suzuki to the 2008 FIM MX1 Manufacturers World Championship.
Locally, it's currently undefeated in the new Australasian
Supercross Championship with Reed at the helm.
Sporting a bold new look, the covers will be taken off the 2009
Suzuki RM-Z450 on 30 October by Reed, with the new model and a
replica of the international superstar's racing machine remaining
on display for the remainder of the expo.
"The RM-Z450 is the ultimate off-road racer and Suzuki is
excited to give enthusiasts attending the Melbourne Expo a preview
of the new-look, 2009 model," Perry Morison, General Manager,
Motorcycles, Suzuki Australia said.
"Around the globe, the RM-Z450 has been a standout performer and
has dominated the opening three rounds of the Australasian
Supercross Championship with Chad Reed."
With a 449cc, four-stroke, single-cylinder, liquid cooled, DOHC,
4-valve powerplant, the RM-Z450 features an Electronic Fuel
Injection (EFI) system, delivering impressive power throughout its
rpm range.
The EFI system was the first on a mass-production motocross
machine, utilising Suzuki's fuel-injection racing experience with
the GSX-R sportsbike range and the QuadRacer 450 ATV.
A battery-less internal fuel pump provides stable pressure
delivery to operate the fuel injection system and utilises an
upgraded 43mm Keihin throttle body specifically designed for
motocross.
The RM-Z450's sophisticated 18-pin magneto senses feedback on
crankshaft position, rotation speed and stroke which is fed back to
the ECU to calculate optimum injection and ignition timings.
Suzuki's combustion chamber combined with an NGK iridium spark
plug provides outstanding power output and low-to-mid range
response, with the exhaust port and cam timing tuned to provide
maximum engine performance.
Enabling low crankshaft placement and a low centre of gravity,
the semi-dry-sump lubrication system features separate oil chambers
for the transmission and crankshaft, using the transmission as the
oil sump.
Offering smooth and rapid gear changes, the five-speed, constant
mesh transmission on the RM-Z450 incorporates a link-type shifting
mechanism.
A right handlebar-mounted hot starter helps riders get the
RM-Z450 underway quickly and easily, while allowing their left hand
to focus on clutch operation.
A lightweight, twin-spar aluminium frame offers incredibly agile
handling and unmatched performance over bumps, while rider comfort
and manoeuvrability is optimised by a slim riding position.
Suzuki's race-bred suspension feature a lightweight swingarm,
delivering precise handling and smooth performance over bumps.
Showa cartridge-style front forks are fully adjustable for
rebound and compression settings, while the Showa rear shock
absorber has fully adjustable high and low speed compression,
rebound and pre-load settings.
Race-inspired, disc-brake wave rotors on the RM-Z450 minimise
temperature and deflect mud, while placement of the footpeg
mounting bracket and footrest prevents mud from caking up.
The Suzuki's bodywork combines slim, aggressive styling with
impressive aerodynamic performance, including a sloped front fender
to guide fresh air into the radiators, which feature two-tone
moulded-plastic shrouds.
Complementing a new Solid Black / Champion Yellow livery and
distinctive new graphics, the 2009 RM-Z450 is fitted with a
gold-coloured chain and yellow numberplate for a full factory
look.
Pricing details for the 2009 Suzuki RM-Z450 will be announced
closer to its arrival date.
SUZUKI RM-Z450K9
Specifications
ENGINE
449cc, four-stroke, single-cylinder, liquid cooled, DOHC,
4-valve
BORE STROKE
96.0 x 62.1mm
COMPRESSION RATIO
12.2:1
FUEL SYSTEM
43mm Keihin electronic fuel injection
LUBRICATION
Semi-dry sump
IGNITION
Digital CDI
TRANSMISSION
5-speed constant mesh
OVERALL LENGTH
2,185mm
OVERALL WIDTH
830mm
OVERALL HEIGHT
1,260mm
SEAT HEIGHT
955mm
GROUND CLEARANCE
350mm
WHEELBASE
1,480mm
SUSPENSION
FRONT
Telescopic, cartridge-type, fully adjustable rebound, compression
and spring preload settings
REAR
Link-type, fully adjustable rebound, compression and spring preload
settings
BRAKES
FRONT
Single hydraulic disc
REAR
Single hydraulic disc
TYRES
FRONT
80/100-21 51M
REAR
110/90-19 62M
FUEL CAPACITY
6.2 litre
COLOUR
Solid Black / Champion Yellow
PRICE
TBA
For further information contact:
Garry Nash or Mitchell Adam
Media Relations - Suzuki Motorcycles
Media & Communication Services
03) 9596 9011
Email: garry@mediacomservices.com.au
/ mitchell@mediacomservices.com.au
Website: www.mediacomservices.com.au