2003 Suzuki RM125
HAS THE CN 125cc CHAMP BBBN IMPRODD FOR '0"
By CHRIS JONNUM
PHOTOS BY KIT PALMER
he 2002 Suzuki RM 125 won the
other publication agreed with us that
it was the best, it did rank near the
top in their comparisons as well. At
the elite level, it has also posted
Cycle News 125cc Motocross
some strong results of late at the
Shootout, and although not every
hands of Blimpie Suzuki team riders
Tech Ticker
It's hard to believe we're already testing 2003 models, but with bikes like the '03
Suzuki RM125, It's a pleasure.
32
JULY
3.2002'
cue
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n
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s
ENGINE
• Exhaust valves are longer and skinnier and have an oval
cross-section, all in an aim to provide a better seal and
improve low-end to midrange power
• Exhaust valve's actuator system has been changed from
a control rod to a linkage system for more precise control
• Radiators have 10-percent more cooling capacity - the
same as the RM250
• Airbox has a rubber guard on the engine side to block
engine heat from air intake
• Shifting mechanism is modified to reduce side-to-side
play and provide more positive shifting
SUSPENSION
• Showa fork has slightly stiffer springs (.42 instead of .40)
and resized compression-damping valves for better midstroke action
• Fork's inner cal'tridge rod [,. pipe nut are aluminum
(instead of steel) for lighter weight
• Fork's spring-guide bushing is now steel (instead of plastic) for more durability
• Fork cap is now hexagonal (instead of oval) for removal
with a conventional wrench
• Shock has revised damping (compression [,. rebound) for
improved mid-stroke action
• Shock shaft is hardened for better durability
• Shock's reservoir-cap-head is hexagonal (instead of oval)
for removal with a conventional wrench
CHASSIS
• Subframe's bridge tube is now round (instead of square)
to allow better airflow to airbox
• Footpegs are now 10mm longer (like the RM250's) and
their mounts are altered to prevent packing with mud
• Rear-brake-pedal mount is moved forward to increase
ground clearance (to accommodate this change, pedal is
straighter and master-cylinder rod is shorter)
• Rims are thicker in center channel and at beads (like
RM250's)
• Seat is 7mm lower and foam is finner; seat cover is thicker
• White numberplates replace yellow plates of the '02; new
ducts in side panels allow more air to airbox
• Graphics are now thicker for more durability
