2024 Suzuki RM-Z450 Guide

Review – Key Features – Features & Benefits – Specification

2024 Suzuki RM-Z450: CLASS LEADING PERFORMANCE.

Introducing the 2024 Suzuki RM-Z450…

The 2024 RM-Z450 remains the champion’s choice, as its sleek, race-ready appearance, strong engine, and nimble chassis continue the Suzuki tradition of extraordinarily precise handling.

The RM-Z450 epitomizes Suzuki’s “Winning Balance” philosophy of “RUN, TURN, and STOP” with strong brakes for controlled stopping power, a wide spread of engine muscle with high peak power, and a strong, light, and more nimble chassis that remains the class standard for cornering performance.

Tuning the electronic fuel injection and ignition systems for maximum performance is easy thanks to Suzuki’s smartphone-based MX-Tuner and proven fuel-coupler system that is included with each 2024 RM-Z450.

THE WINNING BALANCE.

The RM-Z450 wraps a sleek, race-ready appearance around a strong engine and a nimble chassis that continues the Suzuki tradition of extraordinarily precise handling.

Developed using Suzuki’s RUN, TURN and STOP philosophy that creates a Winning Balance, the RM-Z450 has stronger brakes for better stopping power, a wider spread of engine muscle with higher peak power, and a chassis that is stronger, lighter and more nimble to raise the standard for cornering performance.

Competition motorcycles like the RM-Z450 can only be ridden on non-public land in California per California Air Resource Board (CARB) regulations.

2024 Suzuki RM-Z450 Totalmotorcycle.com Key Features

Strong, Usable Engine Performance

• Great throttle response delivers high peak power.
• Evolved traction management system helps the bike hook up.
• Suzuki Holeshot Assist Control (S-HAC) gets you out front.

Unmatched Cornering Performance

• Frame and swingarm balance lightness with strength.
• Chassis dimensions blend nimble handling with stability.
• Coil spring fork provides great performance and easy tuning.
• Showa BFRC (Balance Free Rear Cushion) shock settings delivers remarkable and controlled damping response.
• Bridgestone X30 tires bring outstanding grip.

Controlled Braking Performance

• Large 270mm front brake rotor increases stopping power and feel.
• Compact rear master cylinder is designed to prevent mud from collecting on it and from catching on the rider’s boots.

Functional Styling

• Aggressive styling blends function with Suzuki character.
• Narrow cockpit lets rider move with ease for maximum racing performance.

Rider-friendly Tuning

• Suzuki’s MX-Tuner 2.0 is supplied, providing quick fuel injection and ignition tuning through an easy-to-use smart-phone application.
• Fuel couplers are included for quick and easy EFI Tuning.

FASTER. HIGHER. HARDER.

Motocross is a relentless game, and the technology and training needed for bike and rider to excel are too. Suzuki poured more than 40 years of open-class racebike engineering into the RM-Z450 to make it the hardest-hitting, sharpest-handling, best-balanced and most rider-friendly production motocrosser in company history.

RUN. TURN. STOP.

Strong, Usable Engine Performance

• Great throttle response delivers high peak power.
• Evolved traction management system helps the bike hook up.
• Suzuki Holeshot Assist Control (S-HAC) gets you out front.

Unmatched Cornering Performance

• Frame and swingarm balance lightness with strength.
• Chassis dimensions blend nimble handling with stability.
• Coil spring fork provides great performance and easy tuning.
• Showa BFRC (Balance Free Rear Cushion) shock settings delivers remarkable and controlled damping response.
• Bridgestone X30 tires bring outstanding grip.

Controlled Braking Performance

• Large 270mm front brake rotor increases stopping power and feel.
• Compact rear master cylinder is designed to prevent mud from collecting on it and from catching on the rider’s boots.

Functional Styling

• Aggressive styling blends function with Suzuki character.
• Narrow cockpit lets rider move with ease for maximum racing performance.
• Fuel couplers are included for quick and easy EFI Tuning.

ENGINE FEATURES

• The 449cc, liquid-cooled, four-stroke, four-valve, DOHC engine is the latest incarnation of Suzuki’s proven and reliable fuel-injected powerplant.
• The engine has high peak horsepower with strong torque at lower engine speeds for excellent throttle response through the entire rev range.
• The cylinder head intake port shape creates a high amount of tumble flow to the incoming fuel/air to increase power output.
• The air cleaner’s large and straight opening creates a more direct air path to the throttle body to increase performance.
• Suzuki’s advanced fuel-injection system creates extra-smooth power delivery, high fuel efficiency, and superb reliability.

INCREASED POWER AT ALL ENGINE SPEEDS

• The RM-Z450’s throttle body design locates the fuel injector, fed by a high-pressure fuel pump, so it sprays fuel directly at the butterfly valve to improve atomization of the fuel/air charge.
• This throttle body design eliminates complex control linkage, so the rider feels a more direct connection to the engine.
• The intake camshaft profile has more valve lift than the prior generation RM-Z450, increasing power at all engine speeds.
• The compact aluminum cylinder is finished with Suzuki Composite Electrochemical Material (SCEM) coating for durability, lightweight, and efficient heat transfer.
• The piston’s casting includes strengthening ribs near the wrist pin bosses to match component reliability to the engine’s high horsepower.
• Engine starting is simple and efficient due to a long kick-start lever, well-matched internal gear ratios, a large 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).
• Tough resin engine protectors help guard the coolant pump (on the right) and the stator cover (on the left) from debris and stones.
  The high-flow exhaust system complies with AMA sound regulations.

ADVANCED ELECTRONICS

Traction Control

The RM-Z450 features an evolved and efficient 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.

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.

Fuel Injection

Designed for motocross use, the lightweight, battery-less, electronic fuel injection system is key to the engine’s efficient power delivery.

Suzuki’s proven, easy-to-use fuel couplers are also included to simplify EFI tuning.

• For quick fuel adjustments to suit riding conditions, two couplers are provided. One is for a richer-than-stock and another for a leaner-than-stock fuel setting. Riders can change fuel settings in seconds by simply connecting either coupler to the wire harness.

HOLESHOT ASSIST CONTROL

The Suzuki Holeshot Assist Control (S-HAC) is a selectable launch system derived from the factory race bike to help the rider’s takeoff from the starting gate for an early lead. There are three launch modes riders can choose for the best option per their skill level and starting conditions. There are also three stages to Mode A and Mode B 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 Mode A on the RM-Z450 are specially tuned to aid the rider’s throttle control during launches.

MODES

Mode A: 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 takeoff. It also advances ignition timing during this sequence for stronger acceleration. After six seconds or when you reach fourth gear, the system shuts off and returns to normal ignition timing.

• Benefit of Mode A: For novice riders, and/or hard and slippery traction conditions, use Mode A for a more controlled launch.

Mode B: 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 Mode A, but with increased overall timing advance. The system will return the ignition to normal operation in three situations (whichever happens first): After six seconds, when you reach fourth gear, or when the throttle is closed. The system then shuts off and returns to normal ignition timing.

• Benefit of Mode B: For skilled riders, and/or good starting conditions, use Mode B for a more aggressive launch.

Base Mode: Standard power launch, no action required on the S-HAC switch.

TRANSMISSION FEATURES

The well-sorted, five-speed transmission enables precise gear shift operation. This precise transmission feel is the result of an accurately machined shift cam for exact gear selection. Specialized machining processes also increase the precision of the matching gears.

The multi-plate, wet-clutch uses a rack-and-pinion clutch release mechanism for precise feel of the engagement and disengagement points while riding.

The lightweight chain guide is shaped to accurately route the drive chain smoothly.

CHASSIS FEATURES

• “The RM-Z450’s twin-spar frame and twin-beam swingarm design continues Suzuki’s tradition of delivering the best-handling motocross machines available.
• This aluminum alloy, twin-spar frame combines cast and extruded sections to achieve superior front-and-rear weight distribution while balancing strength and weight.
• The frame is 700 grams (1.32 pounds) lighter than the prior generation RM-Z450 to improve cornering performance and shock absorption while delivering stable handling.
• The swingarm is assembled with thin, yet strong, materials for improved cornering performance and stable handling.
• The short wheelbase and frame head pipe location produces quick and nimble handling characteristics.

LIGHTWEIGHT FRAME

• Hexagonal aluminum rails are used on the sub-frame for lightweight, a slimmer appearance, and easier air filter service.
• The sub-frame rails route inward to slim the bodywork, but also route upwards to provide additional space for the large air cleaner and the advanced BFRC shock absorber.
• Like the trim sub-frame, all of the bodywork is slim to enable the RM-Z450 rider to move freely in the cockpit, especially during spirited riding.
• Inspired by the advanced suspension from the GSX-R1000R Superbike, the RM-Z450 is fitted with a Showa BFRC shock absorber.
• The BFRC uses a separate, external damping circuit that improves the responsiveness of damping force to deliver excellent traction and better absorption over bumps.
• The fully adjustable BFRC controls damping so well during minute suspension movements that ride comfort is increased at lower speeds, while handling is enhanced at higher speeds.
• The Showa coil spring front fork has large inner tubes and rod pipes for strength and durability.
• Springs in each fork leg combine with large, adjustable damping cylinders to deliver better response to the terrain and provide a strong feeling of control to the rider.
• Front suspension tuning and maintenance is balanced and easy: a great benefit during frequent riding.
• The strong Renthal aluminum tapered handlebar has a straighter bend than prior models to help aid the rider during aggressive maneuvering.
• The light upper fork bracket was developed to complement the Showa coil spring front suspension and handlebars.
• For effective stopping performance and feel, a large 270mm, wave-style front brake rotor with a twin piston caliper are used.
• The trim rear brake master cylinder hugs the frame beam to reduce dirt contamination and the chance of the rider’s boot touching it during riding.
• To support the strong engine, braking, and handling performance of the RM-Z450, the bike is fitted with racetrack-developed Bridgestone Battlecross X30 tires.
• The wheels feature black anodized rims with a cross-section design that maintains strength while reducing un-sprung weight.
  Suzuki beak-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.
• The functional styling and the motorcycle’s trim chassis permit a variety of rider positions that facilitate control and comfort.
• The plastic fuel tank weighs a half-pound less than the prior generation’s aluminum tank. Fuel capacity is an ample 6.3 litres (1.7 US gallons).
• The seat base, inner fenders, and side covers were developed to reduce the amount of moisture and dirt that gets to the air cleaner. This helps prevent debris from contaminating the air filter element.
• Made with a special density foam, the seat is well shaped and slim to aid the rider’s control of the motorcycle. The seat has a large blue gripper panel that runs nose-to-tail on the cover.
• The Champion Yellow bodywork is enhanced with a graphic package that features distinctive striping and Suzuki logos.”

MOTOCROSS

The Suzuki RM-Z has become one of the most celebrated motorcycles in AMA Motocross history. Many of the most renowned riders over the years have proudly piloted these machines, earning the RM-Z its place as the champion’s choice for racing. That’s because these bikes deliver legendary cornering, nimble handling, high peak power, and proven durability for whatever style you like to ride. Combine that with the robust amateur racing support of the RM Army program, and the choice is clear.

2024 Suzuki RM-Z450 Totalmotorcycle.com Features and Benefits

ENGINE FEATURES

The 449cc, liquid-cooled, four-stroke, four-valve, DOHC engine is the latest incarnation of Suzuki’s proven and reliable fuel-injected powerplant.

The engine has high peak horsepower with strong torque at lower engine speeds for excellent throttle response through the entire rev range.

The cylinder head intake port shape creates a high amount of tumble flow to the incoming fuel/air to increase power output.

The air cleaner’s large and straight opening creates a more direct air path to the throttle body to increase performance.

Suzuki’s advanced fuel-injection system creates extra-smooth power delivery, high fuel efficiency, and superb reliability.

The RM-Z450’s throttle body design locates the fuel injector, fed by a high-pressure fuel pump, so it sprays fuel directly at the butterfly valve to improve atomization of the fuel/air charge.

This throttle body design eliminates complex control linkage, so the rider feels a more direct connection to the engine.

The intake camshaft profile has more valve lift than the prior generation RM-Z450, increasing power at all engine speeds.

The compact aluminum cylinder is finished with Suzuki Composite Electrochemical Material (SCEM) coating for durability, light weight, and efficient heat transfer.

The piston’s casting includes strengthening ribs near the wrist pin bosses to match component reliability to the engine’s high horsepower.

Engine starting is simple and efficient due to a long kick-start lever, well-matched internal gear ratios, a large 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).

The high-flow exhaust system complies with AMA sound regulations.

Tough resin engine protectors help guard the coolant pump (on the right) and the stator cover (on the left) from debris and stones.

ADVANCED ELECTRONICS FEATURE

Included with the 2024 RM-Z450 is Suzuki’s MX-Tuner 2.0 that provides the ability to easily adjust the fuel injection and ignition system settings for optional race performance.

• Using a smartphone application that wirelessly connects to the MX-Tuner’s compact transceiver, fuel delivery and ignition timing can be quickly changed.
• The MX-Tuner application can pre-program personalized settings into the ECM that can be activated by plugging in one of the supplied fuel couplers.
• Racers and tuners can easily change settings to match performance-related updates.
• The application can save a number of settings for different tracks or weather conditions, plus settings can be exchanged with other racers.
• Real-time engine data and run-time information are accessible to help you stay on top of bike maintenance.

Suzuki’s proven, easy-to-use fuel couplers are also included to simplify EFI tuning.

• For quick fuel adjustments to suit riding conditions, two couplers are provided. One is for a richer-than-stock and another for a leaner-than-stock fuel setting.
• Riders can change fuel settings in seconds by simply connecting either coupler to the wire harness.

The RM-Z450 features an evolved and efficient 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.

• 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.

The Suzuki Holeshot Assist Control (S-HAC) is a selectable launch system derived from the factory race bike to help the rider’s takeoff from the starting gate for an early lead. There are three launch modes riders can choose for the best option per their skill level and starting conditions. There are also three stages to Mode A and Mode B 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 Mode A on the RM-Z450 are specially tuned to aid the rider’s throttle control during launches.

• Mode A: 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 takeoff. It also advances ignition timing during this sequence for stronger acceleration. After six seconds or when you reach fourth gear, the system shuts off and returns to normal ignition timing.
  • Benefit of Mode A: For novice riders, and/or hard and slippery traction conditions, use Mode A for a more controlled launch.
• Mode B: 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 Mode A, but with increased overall timing. The system will return the ignition to normal operation in three situations (whichever happens first): After six seconds, when you reach fourth gear, or when the throttle is closed. The system then shuts off and returns to normal ignition timing.
  • Benefit of Mode B: For skilled riders, and/or good starting conditions, use Mode B for a more aggressive launch.
• 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’s efficient power delivery.

TRANSMISSION FEATURES

The well-sorted, five-speed transmission enables precise gear shift operation. This precise transmission feel is the result of an accurately machined shift cam for exact gear selection. Specialized machining processes also increase the precision of the matching gears.

The multi-plate, wet-clutch uses a rack-and-pinion clutch release mechanism for precise feel of the engagement and disengagement points while riding.

The lightweight chain guide is shaped to accurately route the drive chain smoothly.

CHASSIS FEATURES

The RM-Z450’s twin-spar frame and twin-beam swingarm design continues Suzuki’s tradition of delivering the best-handling motocross machines available.

This aluminum alloy, twin-spar frame combines cast and extruded sections to achieve superior front-and-rear weight distribution while balancing strength and weight.

The frame is 700 grams (1.32 pounds) lighter than the prior generation RM-Z450 to improve cornering performance and shock absorption while delivering stable handling.

The swingarm is assembled with thin, yet strong, materials for improved cornering performance and stable handling.

The short wheelbase and frame head pipe location produces quick and nimble handling characteristics.

Hexagonal aluminum rails are used on the sub-frame for light weight, a slimmer appearance, and easier air filter service.

The sub-frame rails route inward to slim the bodywork, but also route upwards to provide additional space for the large air cleaner and the advanced BFRC shock absorber.

Like the trim sub-frame, all of the bodywork is slim to enable the RM-Z450 rider to move freely in the cockpit, especially during spirited riding.

Inspired by the advanced suspension from the GSX-R1000R Superbike, the RM-Z450 is fitted with a Showa BFRC shock absorber.

The BFRC uses a separate, external damping circuit that improves the responsiveness of damping force to deliver excellent traction and better absorption over bumps.

The fully adjustable BFRC controls damping so well during minute suspension movements that ride comfort is increased at lower speeds, while handling is enhanced at higher speeds.

The Showa coil spring front fork has large inner tubes and rod pipes for strength and durability.

Springs in each fork leg combine with large, adjustable damping cylinders to deliver better response to the terrain and provide a strong feeling of control to the rider.

Front suspension tuning and maintenance is balanced and easy: a great benefit during frequent riding.

The strong Renthal aluminum tapered handlebar has a straighter bend than prior models to help aid the rider during aggressive maneuvering.

The light upper fork bracket was developed to complement the Showa coil spring front suspension and handlebars.

For effective stopping performance and feel, a large 270mm, wave-style front brake rotor with a twin piston caliper are used.

The trim rear brake master cylinder hugs the frame beam to reduce dirt contamination and the chance of the rider’s boot touching it during riding.

To support the strong engine, braking, and handling performance of the RM-Z450, the bike is fitted with racetrack-developed Bridgestone Battlecross X30 tires.

The wheels feature black anodized rims with a cross-section design that maintains strength while reducing un-sprung weight.

Suzuki beak-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.

The functional styling and the motorcycle’s trim chassis permit a variety of rider positions that facilitate control and comfort.

The plastic fuel tank weighs a half-pound less than the prior generation’s aluminum tank. Fuel capacity is an ample 1.7 US gallons.

The seat base, inner fenders, and side covers were developed to reduce the amount of moisture and dirt that gets to the air cleaner. This helps prevent debris from contaminating the air filter element.

Made with a special density foam, the seat is well shaped and slim to aid the rider’s control of the motorcycle. The seat has a large blue gripper panel that runs nose-to-tail on the cover.

The Champion Yellow bodywork is enhanced with a graphics package that features distinctive striping and Suzuki logos.

ADDITIONAL FEATURES

Competition motorcycles like the RM-Z450 can only be ridden on non-public land in California per California Air Resource Board (CARB) regulations.

2024 Suzuki RM-Z450 – Totalmotorcycle.com USA Specifications/Technical Details
US MSRP Price: $9,199 USD
Canada MSRP Price: $11999 CDN
Europe/UK MSRP Price: £7499 GBP (On The Road inc 20% Vat)

Engine449cc, 4-stroke, liquid-cooled, single cylinder, DOHC

Bore x Stroke0 mm x 62.1 mm (3.78 in. x 2.40 in.)

Compression Ratio5:1

Fuel SystemFuel injection, 44mm throttle body

StarterPrimary kickstarter with automatic decompressor

LubricationSemi-dry sump

ClutchWet multi-plate

Transmission5-speed constant mesh

Final DriveChain, DID 520DMA2K, 114 links

Suspension FrontInverted telescopic, coil spring, oil damped, adjustable damping force

Suspension RearBFRC-link type, coil spring, oil damped, adjustable spring preload and damping force

Brakes FrontDisc brake, single rotor

Brakes RearDisc brake, single rotor

Tires Front80/100-21 M/C (51M), tube type

Tires Rear110/90-19 M/C (62M), tube type

Fuel Tank Capacity3 L (1.7 US gal.)

ColorChampion Yellow No. 2

IgnitionElectronic ignition (CDI)

Spark PlugNGK DIMR8C10

Overall Length2175 mm (85.6 in.)

Overall Width835 mm (32.9 in.)

Overall Height1260 mm (49.6 in.)

Wheelbase1480 mm (58.3 in.)

Ground Clearance330 mm (13.0 in.)

Seat Height960 mm (37.8 in.)

Curb Weight112 kg (247 lb.)

WarrantyNot applicable

2024 Suzuki RM-Z450 – Totalmotorcycle.com Canada Specifications/Technical Details

ENGINE

DRIVE TRAIN

CHASSIS

WARRANTY

No Warranty

2024 Suzuki RM-Z450 – Totalmotorcycle.com European Specifications/Technical Details

DIMENSIONS AND WEIGHTS

ENGINE SPECIFICATIONS

CHASSIS SPECIFICATION

Manufacturer Specifications and appearance are subject to change without prior notice on Total Motorcycle (TMW).