In 2004, Suzuki launched the RM-Z250, their first-ever four-stroke motocross motorcycle developed jointly with Kawasaki Heavy industries and featured a brand new 250cc DOHC engine.
Suzuki used its technologies and long experience in motocross manufacturing with this engine to achieve competitive performance for racing.
A good starting point in the development of a performance racing machine is weight, so the engine featured lightweight materials such as magnesium, aluminum, and titanium.
Other parts included in the weight-reduction process were the frame made of slim double-main chromium molybdenum steel tubes, a newly designed rear suspension linkage system, and specially designed rims and tires.
The 2004 Suzuki RM-Z250 had its heartbeat set by a 249cc four-stroke single-cylinder liquid-cooled engine with a power output of 43 hp at 11,000 rpm and 29 Nm (21 lb-ft) of torque available at 8,500 rpm and equipped with a five-speed manual transmission.
For suspension, the bike packed a Kayaba telescopic fork with 300 mm wheel travel on the front and a Kayaba link-type with a fully adjustable spring preload and 310 mm wheel travel on the rear. The wire-spoked wheels featured a single disc with a hydraulic caliper on both the front and rear, acting as braking power.
On the 2022 motorcycle market, the 2004 Suzuki RM-Z250 was for sale starting from $2,000.