| Key Features |
| | Increased Engine Performance – Improved Throttle Response with Higher Peak Power – Evolved Traction Management System Helps the Bike Hook Up – Updated Suzuki Holeshot Assist Control (S-HAC) Gets You Out Front |
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| | Advanced Cornering Performance
– New Frame and Swingarm are Lighter with Excellent Strength
– Refined Chassis Dimensions Blend Nimble Handling with Stability
– Improved Coil-spring Fork Provides Great Performance and Easy Tuning
– New Showa BFRC Rear Shock Delivers Remarkable Damping Response
– Bridgestone X30 Tires bring Outstanding Grip |
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| | Improved Braking Performance
– Larger Front Brake Increases Stopping Power and Feel
– New, Compact Rear Master Cylinder is out of the Way of Mud and Boots |
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| | Functional Styling
– Aggressive New Styling Blends Function with Suzuki Character
– Narrow Cockpit Lets Rider Move with Ease for Maximum Racing Performance |
| Engine Features |
| | New 449cc liquid-cooled 4-stroke, 4-valve DOHC engine is the latest incarnation of Suzuki’s proven and reliable, fuel-injected powerplant |
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| | The engine has higher peak horsepower with more torque at lower engine speeds for improved throttle response through the entire rev-range |
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| | The cylinder head intake port shape is changed to tumble flow the fuel/air mixture by 25% to help increase power output |
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| | A 30% larger air cleaner opening is combined with a more direct air cleaner outlet tube path to the throttle body to increase air flow |
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| | Advanced fuel-injection system makes for extra-smooth power delivery, high fuel efficiency, and superb reliability |
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| | The RM-Z450 has a new, Suzuki-unique throttle body design with a relocated fuel injector fed by a new, higher-pressure fuel pump directly sprays fuel at the butterfly valve to improve atomization of the fuel/air charge |
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| | The new throttle body design eliminates complex control linkage so the rider feels a more direct connection to the engine |
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| | The intake camshaft profile is changed, including more valve lift that the prior model, increasing power at all engine speeds |
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| | The compact aluminum cylinder is finished with Suzuki Composite Electrochemical Material (SCEM) coating for durability, light weight and efficient heat transfer |
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| | The piston’s casting is ungraded to include strengthening ribs near the wrist pin bosses to match component reliability to the higher horsepower |
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| | Engine starting is simple and efficient due to a long kick starter lever, refined internal gears, larger air cleaner and breather system, plus an automatic decompression system that works precisely and efficiently (eliminating the need for a heavy and costly electric start system) |
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| | The high-flow exhaust system complies with AMA sound regulations |
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| | New engine protectors help guard the coolant pump (on the right) and the stator cover (on the left) from debris and stones |
| Advanced Electronic Features |
| | The 2018 RM-Z450 features an evolved and faster traction management system. The Electronic Control Module (ECM) continually measures throttle opening, engine speed and gear position and then adjusts the ignition timing and fuel injector duration to fine-tune the engine output to deliver the best traction for the riding conditions. |
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| | The RM-Z450’s traction management system is different from a street-bike traction control system as it does not measure rear tire spin. Because the needs of a motocrosser are different than a street bike, this system offers constant adjustment that maximizes traction at all times. |
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| | The Suzuki Holeshot Assist Control (S-HAC) is a selectable launch system derived from the factory race bike to help riders’ takeoff from the starting gate for an early lead. There are three modes riders can choose for the best option per their skill level and starting conditions. There are three stages to A – Mode and B – Mode of the S-HAC system. This helps riders at the moment of launch, when crossing the gate, and through acceleration to the full-speed. The S-HAC settings for A – Mode on the 2018 RM-Z450 are updated to aid the rider’s throttle control during launches. |
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| | A – Mode: For hard surfaces or slippery conditions at the starting gate. In this mode, S-HAC alters ignition timing at the moment of launch and the ride over the gate to reduce wheel slip to deliver a smooth take off. It also advances ignition timing during this sequence for stronger acceleration. After 1.2 seconds or when you reach third gear, the system shuts off and returns to normal ignition timing. – Benefit of A – Mode: For novice riders, and/or hard and slippery traction conditions, use A – Mode for a more controlled launch. |
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| | B – Mode: When conditions at the starting gate have better traction, and a more aggressive launch is desired. S-HAC will advance the ignition timing to allow increased throttle response and stronger acceleration off the line. The ignition timing alternation is in a similar sequence as A – Mode, but with increased overall timing. One of three conditions will return the ignition to normal operation (whichever happens first): After 4.5 seconds has passed since throttle opening, or when you shift to 4th gear, or when the throttle is closed. – Benefit of B – Mode: For skilled riders, and/or good starting conditions, use B – Mode for a more aggressive launch. |
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| | Base Mode: Standard power launch, no action required on the S-HAC switch. Designed for motocross-use, the lightweight, battery-less, electronic fuel injection system is key to the engine delivering efficient power. Easy-to-use Fuel Couplers are included to simplify EFI tuning. |
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| | For quick fuel adjustments to suit riding conditions, two couplers are provided. One is for rich and another for lean fuel setting compared to stock setting. Riders can change fuel settings in seconds by simply connecting either coupler to the wire harness. |
| Transmission Features |
| | Refined 5-speed transmission enables precise gear shift operation. The transmission feel has been improved with a precisely machined shift cam for accurate gear selection. Specialized machining processes also increase the precision of the matching gears |
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| | The multi-plate, wet-clutch uses rack & pinion clutch release mechanism for precise feel of the engagement and disengagement points while riding |
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| | The new, lighter-weight chain guide is shaped to accurately route the drive chain smoothly |
| Chassis Features |
| | The 2018 RM-Z450 features a new frame and swingarm design that continues the Suzuki’s reputation as the best handling motocrossers available |
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| | The new aluminum-alloy twin-spar frame combines cast and extruded sections to achieve superior front-and-rear weight distribution while balancing strength and weight |
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| | The new frame is 700 grams (1.32 lbs.) lighter to improve cornering performance and shock absorption while delivering stable handling |
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| | The new swingarm is assembled with thinner materials for 100 grams (0.25 lbs.) lower weight while cornering performance and handling stability is improved |
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| | The wheelbase is shorter and the frame head pipe is relocated to produce quick and nimble handling characteristics |
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| | New hexagonal aluminum rails are used on the sub-frame for lighter weight, a slimmer appearance and easier air-filter service |
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| | The sub-frame rails are moved inward to slim the bodywork, but are also raised to provide additional space for the larger air cleaner and the advanced BFRC shock absorber |
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| | Not only is the sub-frame thinner, but the all of the body work is slim to enable the RM-Z450 rider to move freely in the cockpit, especially during spirited riding |
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| | Inspired by the advanced suspension from the GSX-R1000R Superbike, the RM-Z450 has a new SHOWA Balance Free Rear Cushion (BFRC) shock absorber |
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| | The fully adjustable BFRC controls damping so well during minute suspension movements that ride comfort is increased at lower speeds while stability is enhanced at higher speeds |
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| | The BFRC uses a separate, external damping circuit that improves the responsiveness of damping force to deliver excellent traction and better absorption over bumps |
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| | To improve stopping performance and feel, a larger 270mm wave-style front brake rotor is used |
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| | A new, lighter upper fork bracket is used to complement the new front suspension and handlebars |
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| | Springs in each fork leg combine with larger, adjustable damping cylinders to deliver better response to the terrain and provide a strong feeling of control to the rider |
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| | The strong, RENTHAL aluminum tapered handlebar have a straighter bend that prior models to help aid the rider during aggressive maneuvering |
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| | New generation, improved SHOWA coil spring front fork has larger inner tubes and rod pipes for strength and durability. Front suspension tuning and maintenance is balanced and easy; a great benefit during frequent riding |
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| | A new design rear brake master cylinder hugs the frame beam to reduce dirt contamination and the chance of the rider’s boot touching it during riding |
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| | The wheels feature black-anodized rims with a new cross-section design that maintains strength while reducing un-sprung weight |
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| | To support the additional engine, braking and handling performance of the 2018 RM-Z450, the tires are updated to the race-track developed Bridgestone Battlecross X30 tires |
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| | Suzuki MXGP-inspired styling has a sharper front fender and radiator shrouds blending into side covers and an upswept tail to promote the impression of speed while reducing weight and easing service |
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| | A new plastic fuel tank weighs half-a-pound less than the prior model’s aluminum tank. Fuel capacity is raised to 1.7 US gallons |
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| | The functional styling and the motorcycle’s trim chassis permits a variety of rider positions that facilitate control and comfort |
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| | The seat base, inner fenders and side covers were developed to reduce moisture and dirt from getting to the air cleaner. This helps prevent debris from contaminating the air filter element |
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| | The new seat is slimmer, with revised foam density to aid the rider’s control of the motorcycle. The seat weighs half-a-pound less than the prior model and has a large, blue gripper panel that runs nose-to-tail on the cover |
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| | The Suzuki Championship Yellow bodywork is enhanced with distinctive blue and black striping and modern logo graphics |
