The RM85 is loaded with technology derived from Suzuki's championship-winning motocross bikes. The bike offers smooth power delivery, loads of mid-range and lightweight handling, being perfect for learning to race - and learning to win!

2002 - 2008 Suzuki RM85

Specifications
  • Make: Array
  • Model: 2002 - 2008 Suzuki RM85
  • Engine/Motor: two-stroke, single cylinder, liquid-cooled, AETC, crankcase reed
  • Transmission: 6-speed with #428 chain

2008 Peugeot 308 SW Prologue

Specifications
  • Make: Array
  • Model: 2008 Peugeot 308 SW Prologue
  • Engine/Motor: two-stroke, single cylinder, liquid-cooled, AETC, crankcase reed
  • Transmission: 6-speed with #428 chain
  • [do not use] Vehicle Model: Array

 

Introduction


Suzuki created the RM85 in order to gain a certain clientele that would catch on with the feel and performance of a Suzuki from and early age. Being accessible, bulletproof, and awesome performing, the Suzuki has done the job and many little racers begin their riding years on such machine which offers a great balance between fast and safe.

History


The Suzuki RM85 was launched in 2002 as a new model for smaller motocross enthusiasts. RM80 has been around for some time, and RM85 shares the success of its 80cc model. The bike featured disc brakes in both ends, liquid-cooled single cylinder two-stroke AETC equipped engine, rigid aluminum cradle frame, and progressive suspension. Also it features 70/100-17 (front) and 90/100-14 (rear) wheels. A high-wheel kit (from 2003 offered as a different model called RM85L) was available as an option.

The model was kept unchanged for 2003 and further years, except for the RM85L, that was introduced for 2003 and the new graphics changed year after year. That model features longer wheelbase and bigger wheels as standard for bigger riders.

Competition


Being a great deal, the bike sells constantly but we all know that this is not a company’s target with strong competition coming from Yamaha YZ85 (a faster bike for a few more dollars), Honda CR85R (Yamaha’s strong opponent), and Kawasaki KX85 (an even cheaper bike with as much to offer as the Suzuki). RM85 is Suzuki’s attempt of gaining terrain in front of the previous mentioned manufacturers with a strongly balanced package.

Exterior


Probably the primary attractive thing on the Suzuki resumes on the bike’s appearance which feature great fit and finish, slim and easy to maneuver bodywork all gathered to compose an attractive design which makes a true statement of what’s about to come. All the controls are well positioned and easy to reach, the handlebars are specially fitted to ensure a good riding position and together with the front number panel and fender complete the functional and yet aggressive front of this motorcycle. This year’s model also features new decals on the side panels. Let’s hope that the image described will be the one seen first before the finish line.

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Test Drive


Suzuki RM85 isn’t quite the most powerful minibike for starters but Suzuki kept one thing in mind while creating the motorcycle: not every parent wishes the fastest, hardest-hitting bike on the starting line especially if its child is just starting out. And no, I am not trying to find any excuse. In fact, I would have to say that though Suzuki has won plenty of races and national Championships with its popular RM85, the small yellow bike is known for its potent and yet bigger-friendly engine. As a manufacturer which equips its mini with a power-valve, Suzuki has an 85cc powerplant that has tons of hop-up potential, but is at the same time easy for beginners and novices to ride. In fact this is the bike’s objective: to initiate riders in the world of motocross as well as possible.

The engine provides an impressive amount of low-end power and pulls strong through the middle of the powerband. But keep in mind that this is an 85cc and it doesn’t jerks as the motor builds revs bringing us again the thought that this is what it was created for which means that it does the job perfectly. Instead of jerking, the bike pulls strong and easily into an average top-end overrev. The Suzuki will make beginner rider feel much ore at home on the Suzuki than on the other bikes in its class, especially Yamaha YZ85.

Suzuki’s RM85 suspension is set to suit the majority of riders with some effort dialing it in. The bike sets a good cornering position and that helps when heavily accelerating at the exit of the curves giving confidence to the rider which already starts accumulating experience on the RM85.

The brakes are very important in motocross and in every motor sport but when it comes to the rider’s safety and efficiency concerning stopping power, Suzuki takes quite a few safety measures resulting into a strongly braking motorcycle.

The general impression given by the Suzuki is very promising after a good 20 hours of aggressive riding on a bike that didn’t made any wrong noise or sign of decreasing power on the threatening jumps.

Price


For a MSRP of $3,099 the future champions will benefit of a fast but safe motorcycle with great winning capabilities which will mark the beginning of a beautiful story. The perfectly balanced package will secure the rider’s every need and desire in any conditions of track or riding and it does it for a small amount of money.

Conclusion


Already the choice for up-and-coming motocross stars, the RM85 has proven to be a balanced and capable race-winning machine. The 2008 RM85 is aiming to become an even greater machine with even more chances of winning.

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SPECIAFICATIONS