Suzuki announced the new 2019 RM-Z250 a little while ago but there were no real details about the bike, but now there are. One of the reasons of the delay, the information was just not there yet and Suzuki had not finalized final testing regarding the production bike. It is also said according to Suzuki that this might be the first bike to be produced in their new manufacturing facility in Japan, which consolidates their motorcycle division in one larger new plant.
The 2019 not only gets what looks very similar to the newer RM-Z450 chassis, the 250 will also get a new engine cylinder head, dual fuel injectors and ECU. What it does no get is electric start. Like the 450, the 250 for the time being is going to be a kick start version. Items like the swingarm do differ compared to the 450 so even if the plastics are the same, the two may not share the same main frame like other manufactures are currently doing but looking at the two they look very similar.
What the new 250 does get is all-new KYB spring fork and standard rear shock, (a different setup over the Showa shock on the 450) Most of the specs are very detailed with regard to updates and new features, although claimed weight and dimensions were still not announced.
It’s nice to see a new 250 from Suzuki and the bike solid on paper, but probably won’t be released until the first of the year. Below are some of the details of the bike from Suzuki.
// Increased Engine Performance
º New cylinder head increases output and throttle response
º New dual fuel injector system increases high rpm power
º Evolved traction management system helps the bike hook up
º Updated Suzuki Holeshot Assist Control (S-HAC) gets you out front
// Greater Cornering Performance
º New frame and swingarm balances lightness with strength
º Engine placement and mounting aid chassis’ nimble handling
º Coil spring KYB fork provides superb performance and easy tuning
º New KYB rear shock and linkage deliver remarkable control
º Race-ready, high-grip Dunlop MA33 tires
// Improved Braking Performance
º Larger front brake increases stopping power and feel
º New, compact rear master cylinder is designed to prevent mud from
collecting on it and from catching on the rider’s boots
// Functional Styling
º Aggressive new styling from the championship caliber RM-Z450
º Narrow cockpit lets rider move with ease for maximum racing performance
// Rider-friendly Tuning
º Fuel couplers are included for quick and easy EFI tuning
ENGINE FEATURES
// Fitted with a new cylinder head and other improvements for 2019, the fuelinjected,
249cc, liquid-cooled, four-stroke, four-valve, DOHC engine remains
proven and reliable.
// The engine improvements result in greater power output with improved
throttle response through the entire rev range.
// The cylinder head features a new intake port shape and finish that fine-tunes
the fuel/air charge into the combustion chamber to increase engine output.
// A 30 percent larger air cleaner opening is combined with a more direct air
cleaner outlet tube path into the throttle body for increased air flow.
// The updated fuel injection system has extra-smooth power delivery, high fuel
efficiency, superb reliability, and easy tuning capability.
// For the first time on a Suzuki MX model, twin fuel injectors are used. The fuel/
air mix created by both injectors improves charging efficiency and increases
high rpm power.
// The primary fuel injector is at the bottom of the throttle body and sprays fuel
at the butterfly valve to improve fuel and air atomization. The secondary
injector is positioned in the air cleaner inlet duct so the fuel and air have
more time to mix and cool before entering the engine.
// To feed the new twin-injector system and mix the fuel and air charge to
improve throttle response, the new, high-capacity fuel pump has 17 percent
more output pressure.
// The new throttle body eliminates complex control linkage, so the rider feels a
more direct connection to the engine.
// The intake camshaft profile is new, with more valve lift, increasing power at all
engine speeds.
// The cam chain tension adjuster and guide have been redesigned to reduce
friction and mechanical loss.
// The compact aluminum cylinder is finished with Suzuki Composite
Electrochemical Material (SCEM) coating for durability, light weight, and
efficient heat transfer.
// To increase reliability, the machining process at the piston pin holes is
changed to reduce stress at the piston crown.
// Engine starting remains simple, due to a proven kickstarter and automatic
decompression system that works precisely and efficiently (eliminating the
need for a heavy and costly electric start system).
// The new, high-flow exhaust system has a longer head-pipe, tapered midsection,
and multi-layer silencer that has better flow through the entire rev
range, with an emphasis on low-rpm performance.
// The new exhaust silencer is a four-layer design that enhances performance
and maintains compliance with AMA sound regulations.
// New resin engine protectors help guard the coolant pump (on the right) and
the stator cover (on the left) from debris and stones.
ADVANCED ELECTRONICS
// Suzuki’s proven, easy-to-use fuel couplers are included to simplify EFI tuning.
º For quick fuel adjustments to suit riding conditions, two couplers are
provided. One is for a richer-than-stock and another for a leaner-thanstock
fuel setting. Riders can change fuel settings in seconds by simply
connecting either coupler to the wire harness.
// The 2019 RM-Z250 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.
º The RM-Z250’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 riders’ takeoff from the starting
gate for an early lead.
º To aid riders at the moment of launch, there are three stages of power
adjustment from the S-HAC system: 1) the moment of initial launch, 2)
when crossing the starting gate, and 3) acceleration up to full-speed.
// There are three S-HAC modes riders can choose for the best option per their
skill level and starting conditions. The S-HAC settings for both launch modes
on the 2019 RM-Z250 are updated to help the rider control engine speed
during starts.
º 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 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 A-Mode: For novice riders, and/or hard and slippery traction
conditions, use A-Mode for a more controlled launch.
º 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 six seconds
or when you reach fourth gear, the system shuts off and returns to normal
ignition timing.
• Benefit of B-Mode: For skilled riders, and/or good starting conditions,
use B-Mode for a more aggressive launch.
º Base Mode: Standard power launch, no action required on the S-HAC switch.
TRANSMISSION & DRIVE FEATURES
// The five-speed transmission is updated with a new second gear ratio and
overall final ratio to match the engine’s stronger output for better acceleration
and top speed.
// True to Suzuki transmission standards, the gear shift operation is smooth and
precise. Carefully designed parts like the precisely machined shift cam and
corresponding gears create a transmission a racer can rely on.
// 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 new, lighter-weight chain guide is shaped to accurately route the drive
chain smoothly.
CHASSIS FEATURES
// The 2019 RM-Z250 features a new frame and swingarm design that continues
Suzuki’s reputation for creating the best-handling motocross motorcycles.
// 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.
// The new frame is 370 grams (0.8 pounds) lighter but has a 10 percent increase
in torsional rigidity.
// The position of the engine in the new frame is changed so the crankshaft sits
higher in the chassis to further the bike’s nimble handling characteristics.
// The design of the rear, upper engine mounts has been updated to a pair of
mounts that are outboard of the cylinder head to increase rigidity and allow
a direct intake path to the engine.
// The engine mount material is changed to aluminum from steel to reduce
weight.
// The new swingarm is shaped using an innovative hydroforming process that
maintains strength but reduces weight by 0.6 pounds (270 grams).
// The new hydroforming process enabled engineers to create tapered swingarm
beams that increased rigidity, while reducing heavier assembly welding.
// New hexagonal aluminum rails are used on the sub-frame for lighter weight,
a slimmer appearance, and easier air filter access.
// The sub-frame rails are moved inward to slim the bodywork but are also
raised to provide additional space for the larger air cleaner.
// Not only is the new sub-frame narrow, but all of the body work is slim, so the
rider can move freely in the cockpit, especially during spirited riding.
// The new, KYB-supplied shock absorber has a thin-wire spring, spring guide,
cushion rubber guide, and lower link that weigh less and have better
movement reaction. The new spring and link weigh a pound (447.5 grams)
less than the prior parts.
// This KYB shock has new damping force circuits and a different rear lever ratio
to improve the suspension’s traction characteristics.
// The damping force adjusters have a wider tuning range, so the settings can
better match the conditions and the rider’s style.
// A new, high-performance KYB coil spring front fork replaces the PSF2
Pneumatic Spring Fork previously used on the 2018 RM-Z250.
// Both fork legs have the same springs and damping force components, so
front suspension tuning and maintenance is balanced and easy: a great
benefit during frequent riding.
// This new fork uses a free-piston design that separates air and oil to optimize
the damping characteristics. Other internal changes help control the
damping cartridge’s pressure and spring recoil, so the fork action remains
supple and precise.
// The new Renthal aluminum tapered handlebar has a straighter bend (less
pull-back) than prior models to help aid the rider during aggressive maneuvering.
// A new, lighter upper fork bracket is used to complement the new front
suspension and handlebars.
// To improve stopping performance and feel, a new, larger 270mm, wavestyle
front brake rotor and a Nissin two-piston brake caliper are used.
// The brake pad material is also changed to improve performance, plus the
new front brake lever is a push rod type that more effectively transmits the
squeezing force that the rider applies to the master cylinder.
// 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.
// The wheels feature black anodized D.I.D DirtStar rims with a new cross-section
design that maintains strength while reducing un-sprung weight.
// To match the handling potential of the 2019 RM-Z250, the wheels are fitted
with race-developed Dunlop Geomax MX33 tires. Additionally, the rear tire is
nearly a half-pound (160 kg) lighter than the tire used on the prior RM-Z250.
// Suzuki beak-inspired styling has sharp front fender and radiator shroud
shapes that blend into the frame’s 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 permits a variety of
rider positions that facilitate control and comfort.
// In addition to the ergonomic improvements from the new bodywork, the
rider’s foot pegs are moved 0.12 inches (3.3 mm) forward and 0.2 inches
(5.2 mm) upward, while the handlebar grip position is moved 0.3 inches
(7.4 mm) forward and 0.15 inches (3.8 mm) downward, to create a high
level of rider-control during competition.
// The new plastic fuel tank weighs a half-pound less than the prior model’s
aluminum tank. Fuel capacity is 1.6 US gallons.
// The seat base, inner fenders, and side covers were developed to reduce
moisture and dirt from reaching the air cleaner. This helps prevent debris
from contaminating the air filter.
// The new, slimmer seat has revised foam density to aid the rider’s control of
the motorcycle. The seat weighs a half-pound less than the prior model’s
and has a large gripper panel that runs nose-to-tail on the cover.
// The Suzuki Championship Yellow bodywork is enhanced with distinctive striping
and modern logo graphics.
// See Suzuki’s industry-leading contingency programs at
www.SuzukiCycles.com/Racing.
RM-Z250 / SPECS
ENGINE
Engine: 249cc, 4-stroke, liquid-cooled,
single cylinder, DOHC
Bore x Stroke: 77.0 mm x 53.6 mm (3.0 in. x 2.1 in.)
Compression Ratio: 13.75 :1
Fuel System: Fuel injection, dual-injector type
Starter: Primary kickstarter with automatic decompressor
Lubrication: Semi-dry sump
DRIVE TRAIN
Clutch: Wet multi-plate
Transmission: 5-speed constant mesh
Final Drive: Chain, DID 520DMA4K, 114 links
CHASSIS
Suspension, Front: Inverted telescopic, coil spring, oil damped,
adjustable damping force
Suspension, Rear: Single unit, link type, coil spring, oil damped,
adjustable spring preload and damping force
Brake, Front: Disc brake, single rotor
Brake, Rear: Disc brake, single rotor
Tire, Front: 80/100-21 M/C 51M, tube type
Tire, Rear: 100/90-18 M/C 57M, tube type
Fuel Tank Capacity: 6.3 L (1.6 US gal.)
ELECTRICAL
Ignition: Electronic ignition (CDI)
Spark Plug: NGK CR8EIB-10
DIMENSIONS
Overall Length: TBA
Overall Width: TBA
Overall Height: TBA
Wheelbase: TBA
Ground Clearance: TBA
Seat Height: TBA
Curb Weight: TBA
