The Suzuki RM-Z250 has long been an overlooked 250cc four-stroke, this most likely stems from the lack of a factory Suzuki program for the bike both domestically and in the United States. This means that a small amount of riders even take a second look at the bike, which is unfortunate because they are missing out on quite a solid package.

Last year’s release of the Suzuki RM-Z250 saw a huge overhaul from top to bottom. Over 80 revised parts within the motor were updated to increase power, torque, durability and ease of use. These updates, along with a list of extras, obviously carry through to the relatively unchanged 2017 model.

Additional updates carrying over from 2016 include the new piston and piston ring design, reduced crankshaft inertia, a revised EFI throttle valve angle, redesigned camshafts and intake and a longer header pipe for enhanced low-to-mid range power.

Image: Alex Gobert (Foremost Media).

The 2017 Suzuki RM-Z250 engine is really a great overall package. It’s a super user-friendly engine with ample amounts of torque allowing the use of third gear in most corners, this helps remain smooth on track and as we know, smooth is fast. The engine pulls very well from the bottom through to the top, it’s not the fastest in its class, but it’s a great overall offering.

For 2017, the RM-Z250 retains the Suzuki Holeshot Assist Control (S-HAC) feature. This system offers selectable launch to help you take off from the starting gate in a race situation. There are three modes riders can choose from to suit the starting surface and conditions. This is an awesome feature if you’re looking for that extra edge out of the gate.

For 2017 the Suzuki RM-Z250 continues to feature KYB suspension components introduced in last year’s overhaul, and here at MotoOnline.com.au, we’re stoked to see that. Up front we see the KYB PSF2 Pneumatic Spring fork make its return. The fork uses air chambers in place of steel springs for light-weight, easy adjustability, improved damper performance and smooth action from low friction.

Image: Alex Gobert (Foremost Media).

You can adjust both air forks with one balanced air pressure setting from a hand-pump, which is reasonably straightforward – you just have to stay on top of it each time you ride. Compression damping is adjustable while rebound-damping force is both high and low speed adjustable.

As a rider who usually feels more comfortable on a traditional spring fork, I’ve been converted thanks to the KYB PSF2 fork – it’s that good. Using the standard settings right out of the box, the 2017 RM-Z250 provides amazing rider feedback and turns on a dime. The front-end on this bike is really impressive and definitely a huge move in the right direction from Suzuki.

Obviously with the PSF2 fork, a KYB shock is featured in the rear, connected link style to the swingarm via re-shaped cushion rods and spacers. The nitrogen-charged, piggyback style shock features a top-mounted integral adjuster system for easy adjustment of the high and low speed rebound, and high and low speed compression damping force adjusters.

Image: Alex Gobert (Foremost Media).

This KYB suspension combo, along with the recently updated frame design, is hard to beat in the 250cc four-stroke category. The way the 2017 Suzuki RM-Z250 turns and handles is thoroughly impressive. This has to be one of the easiest and most effortless bikes to ride in its class.

The frame, updated for 2016, plays a huge role in the handling department. Last year’s model came in 2.5 percent lighter than the previous model, a great improvement especially in the 250cc four-stroke category. Rigidity had also been optimized with the removal of material in select locations to improve cornering performance.

Carrying this same frame and suspension combination over to the 2017 model was a smart move from Suzuki. They have really nailed the geometry, rigidity and overall design of this chassis and suspension combination. If you’re searching for a bike that feels planted and provides you with a tonne of confidence, you might want to take a look at this bike.

Image: Alex Gobert (Foremost Media).

Obviously you must be asking, isn’t this just the exact same bike as the 2016 model? Well, yes, it is the same bike, but besides a bodywork change, this bike was all-new just one year ago. And speaking of the bodywork, it may have remained unchanged for multiple years, but this bike still looks great, especially with the slight revisions made for 2017.

The 2017 Suzuki RM-Z250 finally features something it has needed for years – black rims! The RM-Z250 now features black Excel aluminum rims, which really change the entire look of the bike. Along with the rims, Suzuki switched out the black rear fender yellow, yellow side number plates for black and updated the seat cover colours.

Overall the 2017 Suzuki RM-Z250 is one solid 250cc four-stroke machine – it just does everything you want. You really can’t fault a bike that handles like a dream, offers a great engine package and looks great rolling off the back of your ute. The 2017 Suzuki RM-Z250 is now available Australia wide for an un-changed recommended retail price of $9990. For more information on the 2017 Suzuki RM-Z250, head to www.suzukimotorcycles.com.au.