IN MELBOURNE
Team Suzuki Press Office - October 31.
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," said Perry Morison, General Manager, Motorcycles, Suzuki Australia.
"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 sports bike 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 features 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.
