In a year at Dirt Rider, we get to ride a wide variety of motorcycles. When talking about models for 2022, two in particular stick out to me. To start, there’s a KTM dirt bike that completely blew beyond my expectations. The RM-Z250 from Suzuki will debut in 2022 as the second.
At Glen Helen Raceway, 2022, riding a Suzuki RM-Z250. The Mark Kariya/
In light of the widespread dismissal of the motorcycle and the widespread criticism it has received from the moto press, my expectations for the next ten-hour ride were low. I’m not above admitting when I’m wrong, and I certainly was wrong to make that assumption.
The cheapest motorcycle in the 250F or 450 class, the quarter-liter RM-Z has a lot going for it. Some groups would even argue they find a lot to appreciate. Here are my thoughts on the stunning 2022 Suzuki RM-Z250, which is available in bright yellow and blue.
No significant mechanical changes have been made to the Suzuki 250 four-stroke motocrosser since 2019. (Kariya, Mark)
Engine for the 2022 Suzuki RM-Z250
All 250Fs tested on the Dirt Rider dyno are more powerful than 125cc two-strokes, and the RM-Z250 is no exception. This is significant because, as motorcyclists, we tend to overlook the rapidity with which engine technology has advanced in recent years. Although the small RM-Z isn’t going to set any records for horsepower or torque, it does provide a stable platform for both new and experienced riders.
It’s true that the RM-Z250 can be turned into a full-fledged racing machine with enough money and modifications, but that’s not its appeal in its original form. The Suzuki is at its finest when short-shifted, making use of all five gears in its gearbox to build smoothly from low to high.
The RM Army has a 249cc fuel-injected, liquid-cooled, DOHC four-stroke engine, but how much power does it produce? On our in-house dyno, we were able to measure 36.7 horsepower and 18.3 lb.-ft. of torque.
It can be made to rev when requested, but not with the same top-end pull as some of its peers. The powerband is notably narrower than some of its rivals at higher rpm, but it won’t lie down and go backward like early carbureted four-strokes.
If you look at the torque curve and compare it to the horsepower curves of similar vehicles, you’ll see that the torque curve is considerably more competitive. The yellow rider has the potential to set competitive lap times in the right hands. However, the RM-lack Z’s of power might be problematic when errors occur.
If you’re on the smaller side, you can get it back with a rapid press of the clutch, but I had to often downshift and reset the timing. I was able to put all my abuse on the cable clutch over the 10 hours because of its gentle movement.
We know how to repair the RM-recognized Z250’s issues. (Kariya, Mark)
These are my own minimum expectations for the suspension of the ’22 RM-Z250.
Fork
Twenty to eighteen clicks of compression
Inbound: 14-click retort
Adjust the triple clamps so that the fork is 10 mm higher.
Shock
In terms of low-speed compression, you should aim for 14-16 clicks
Quickly compress data in only 14 clicks
Rebound at Low Velocity: 14 Clicks
High-Speed Comeback: 16 Clicks
Sag: 105-107mm
2020 Suzuki RM-Z250 Steering and Chassis
The RM-Z250 has ten hours of seat time, and I’m still not persuaded the chassis broke in. Within only a few hours, the suspension’s stiction softened up, but the bike’s overall frame stiffness and tightness were never compromised throughout my time with it. This has been a Suzuki characteristic for quite some time, so drivers who are used to vehicles from other manufacturers may need to adjust.
The RM-chassis Z’s allows the rider to experience the track like never before. This experience has both positive and negative aspects, since it necessitates a professional-grade chassis that sacrifices a lot in terms of comfort and bump compliance. The RM-Z excels on supercross-style jump circuits, therefore it’s a good thing that the KYB suspension works so well (for larger riders like me) on tracks with more natural terrain.
The Suzuki is the least cost motorcycle of its kind, coming in at only $7,899. A 250F motocrosser at a reasonable price. (Kariya, Mark)
An excellent motorcycle, the 2022 Suzuki RM-Z250 is a great choice. The RM-Z250 is an excellent motorcycle for the proper rider who also happens to be a Suzuki fanatic. When it comes to value and the thrill of being an underdog, the 250F class’s low price and high passing speed are unmatched. My advice is to join the RM Army if you’re looking for a good time.
Additional Specifics Regarding the 2022 Suzuki RM-Z450
In addition to higher-quality aftermarket air filters, screen-less air filter cages, such as those made by No Toil and Twin Air for the RM-Z250 and RM-Z450, are also a wise purchase.
You may get some of the best information on emergency plans and procedures on Suzuki’s website.
A Yoshimura RS-12 exhaust system and a Throttle Syndicate RM Army Edition graphics package are included with the RM Army Edition, which is available for purchase from July 1, 2023, through September 30, 2023.
Gearbox
Arai VX-Pro4 Helmet
To learn more about EKS Brand Lucid, just Google it.
O’Neal Mayhem, Jersey.
Mitts by O’Neal Matrix
Those are O’Neal Mayhem’s pants!
Shoes/Boots: Sidi Crossfire 3 SRS
Preprinted license plate backgrounds by DeCal Works
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