Big boost for 2010 Suzuki RM-Z450

Suzuki's 2010 motocross line-up has been further bolstered with news that the flagship RM-Z450 model has undergone thorough revisions for the new year. Boasting not only improved engine performance, but changes to the chassis which offer laser-accurate steering and confidence-inspiring high speed stability.

With revised cam profiles and reworked cylinder-head porting, the new RM-Z450 offers improved performance across the rev-range, giving arm-stretching power from idle to redline. On top of the changes to the cams and cylinder, the new 450 has an improved camchain tensioner, providing more consistent performance as well as a new throttle linkage making low-speed response more progressive.

With significant chassis changes too, 2010 brings a two-piece design headstock that is crucially 9mm taller than on the previous model. This combined with wider rear frame-sections and a wider upper frame bridge, give enhanced rigidity while wall thickness has been strategically designed to save weight too.

On top of the major changes, the 2010 RM-Z450 has also undergone a host of smaller updates, including a revised fuel-injection system, featuring a reversed throttle-valve movement, allowing the fine fuel-air mist from the 12-hole injector to be directed away from the throttle valve for a more uniform mixture, benefiting increased power and enhanced throttle response.

To aid the increased power and improved chassis performance, the RM-Z450's Showa suspension is also improved, offering new spring and damping rates front and rear. With the 47mm inverted forks offering optimum wheel travel with compression and rebound damping, the Showa piggyback resevoir shock offers both high-and-low-speed compression damping along with rebound damping and spring preload adjustment, combined with a new link-bearing, giving improved overall traction.

Suzuki GB marketing manager, George Cheeseman, commented, "With the recent news of our all-new RM-Z250 and RMX450Z, these significant updates on our flagship model give us an extremely strong range. While the 450 was the first production motocross machine to feature fuel-injection, we believe the changes for 2010 will keep it firmly at the front of the pack. Crucially, the bike will be available in dealers later this month with a recommended retail price of £5,799."

For more information on the 2010 RM-Z450, visit suzuki-gb.co.uk