The 2016 Suzuki RM-Z250 is practically all-new, with over 80 engine updates, new suspension, a new chassis and Suzuki Holeshot Assist Control.
Suzuki announced today that its 2016 RM-Z250 is new, boasting numerous engine changes, a new chassis and significant supension upgrades, all of them designed to make the quarter-liter motocross machine perform better in the hands of every rider from top pros to novices.
According to Suzuki officials that we spoke to, its engineers pored through the RM-Z250’s 249cc, DOHC, fuel-injected four-stroke engine, making over 80 changes–so many that the engine required new cases, so it is effectively new as well. Topping the list is a new-for-the-250 Suzuki Holeshot Assist Control (S-HAC). The same sysetm that is found on the RM-Z450, the S-HAC is a selectable launch mode system designed to improve traction out of the starting gate on a wider variety of surfaces, be they slick concrete, deep dirt or all things in-between.
The rider can select one of three modes, which adjusts the RM-Z250’s ignition mapping, with a simple push button on the left handlebar. “A Mode” is designed for hard surfaces or less-than-ideal conditions at the starting gate, while “B Mode” is more aggressive for more optimal traction conditions. Riders can also choose the standard power launch mode.
Other changes to the RM-Z250’s engine include upgraded fuel mapping to help ease engine starting (again) while also improving the engine’s feel when rolling on the throttle. Fueling is still handled by a battery-less Keihin fuel-injection (FI) system with a 44mm throttle body that features progressive throttle linkage and a 16-bit computer. The RM-Z250 still offers additional tailoring of power for rider preference or track conditions through the use of its quick-connect DFI fuel couplers, which can be swapped trackside without requiring any tools.
In the suspension department, the Showa Separate Function Fork (SFF) is history, and in it place is an all-new KYB PSF2 air fork designed to provide improved bump absorption with even more adjustability via high- and low-speed rebound damping adjusters as well as high- and low-speed compression damping adjusters. Preload adjustments are made using a high-pressure air-pump. Using air instead of a conventional steel spring allows for more precise tuning while minimizing oil particulate contamination from the spring.
Out back, the RM-Z250 also gets a new KYB shock that features damping adjusters for tuning high- and low-speed rebound damping and high- and low-speed compression damping.
Changing to new suspension components also necessitated a new chassis. Suzuki officials tell us that the aluminum perimeter frame is designed to work optimally with the new suspension to provide the cornering prowess for which the RM-Z250 is famous while also improving its straight-line stability. The biggest change lies in the cast aluminum pieces near the footpeg area, which are redesigned to help deliver the ideal flex and rigidity characteristics of the chassis. The frame geometry has also been revised, resulting in a lighter steering feel, says Suzuki.
The RM-Z250 also boasts a new front brake caliper that is 10 percent lighter than the previous model’s. Aftermarket Excel aluminum rims and Renthal Fatbar handlebars are standard equipment.
MSRP for the 2016 Suzuki RM-Z250 has been set at $7699.
2016 RM-Z450/2016 RM85
Compared to the 2016 Suzuki RM-Z250, the RM-Z450’s list of improvements is thin. Suzuki says that it has made refinements to the 450’s Suzuki Holeshot Assist Control system (S-HAC) to make it more effective, but besides new graphics, the RMZ450 is virtually unchanged–it doesn’t even get the new KYB suspension found on the 2016 RM-Z250. The 2016 Suzuki RM-Z450 retails for $8749, and comes in Champion Yellow/Solid Black bodywork.
The 2016 Suzuki RM85 retains the same 84.7cc liquid-cooled two-stroke engine designed to produce smooth power at any rpm, with the the emphasis remaining on low to mid-range performance. That power reaches the ground through a six-speed manual transmission. The RM85’s Showa 37mm inverted front fork is adjustable for rider weight, style and ability, and offers 10.8-inches of travel. Out back there is a Showa shock absorber with large diameter shock body that Suzuki says is is valved to deliver a plush feel and increased resistance to bottoming while providing 10.9-inches of wheel travel.
The 2016 Suzuki RM85 is available in Champion Yellow. MSRP has been set at $4099.
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