Suzuki RM125 Specs and Review 2022

Suzuki RM125 history, specs, pictures

Suzuki RM125: Its name is a reference to the Suzuki RM125 is preceded by its legendary reputation. It won the World Motocross Suzuki RM125 GP championship from 1975 until 1984. 

The fabled two-wheeler is lightweight strong, powerful, and comes with an interesting past. 

This article will explore this dirt bike in the style of Enduro and the revolutionary innovations it brought in the field of motorcycling.

In production from 1974 to 2008, The Suzuki RM125 marked the start of the Japanese company’s “Racing Model” series. 

It came with a “Full Floater” suspension system with a manual gearbox that had six speeds, and an exhaust with up-swept that allowed it to beat its rivals and be a part of the Dirt Bike magazine’s “Hall of Fame.”

A replacement for that the Suzuki TM125, the RM125 was expected to surpass the capabilities of its predecessor. 

However, not many off-roaders realize that the 125cc RM models were not without a rough beginning. 

Despite this, the debut of this dirt motorcycle was an enormous success that quickly grew into 50-cc and 400-cc displacements.

Are you interested in the factors that make the RM125 one of the top MX bikes ever made? Check out this article – it is all you need to know.

Suzuki RM125 History

Many are unaware that the RM125 didn’t make it to the track in its initial launch. It did not have enough power when compared to models like Honda CR, Kawasaki XK, or Yamaha YZ versions. 

In an effort to improve this impression,’ Suzuki quickly released the RM125S at the end of the year. It was a success however, it was plagued by problems with cold-seizing until 1980.

Major changes did not occur until after the year when the Japanese firm outfitted the dirt motorcycle with liquid cooling and added new cylinder linings, as well as several improvements to the design of pistons. 

In 1981, it was also Suzuki used its “Full Floater” suspension system for the two-wheeler. 

With an adjustable saddle, a brand new power reed mechanism, and the manual gearbox, which had a 20% greater strength it was clear that the RM 125 was officially MX-ready.

All models of the RM125 series received the style and design enhancements until Suzuki decided to end this 125cc RM in America because of changes in the structure of the class. 

These improvements enhanced the MX motorcycle’s characteristics as well as dealt with any minor mechanical issues that it was afflicted with. 

Suzuki racing champions Gaston Rahier, Akira Watanabe, Harry Everts, Eric Geboers as well as Michele Rinaldi could not have been more proud.

Suzuki RM125 Specs & Features

From 1974 until 2008 the dirt bike produced 36 models during its entire production period all 2WD models and with Champion Yellow body panels. 

To get a better understanding of the evolution of the RM125 experienced Let’s examine the ’75 and 2006 models in this article:

Suzuki RM125 Engine

The RM125’s power unit was not always connected to the present Mikuni TX38SS carburetor. 

The initial carb size of 28 millimeters didn’t make the bike strong enough to compete with its Honda, Kawasaki, and Yamaha competitors. 

This was the reason for a change during the first year of its launch and led to the increase of the carb’s size to 34 millimeters with other engine enhancements. 

However, what stood out most from these modifications was not the bigger cabin or the modifications made to the wheeler’s “downpipe” exhaust. 

The most notable change was using pink poly hoses as the overflow tubes of the model that was revisited.

1975 Suzuki RM 125	2006 Suzuki RM 125
Engine Type	2-stroke
Cylinder Arrangement	6-port scavenging, piston valve	Crankcase reed valve, single-cylinder
Carburetion System	Carburetor, 28-mm Mikuni (RM125M); Mikuni VM34SS (RM125S)	Carburetor, Mikuni TMX38SS x 1
Engine Cooling	Air cooling	Liquid cooling
Engine Fuel	Unleaded gasoline of at least PON 86/RON 90 rating (RON 95 – non-U.S./Canada), containing < 5% MTBE, < 10% ethanol, or < 5% methanol
Fuel Capacity	5.3 L/1.4 US gal	8 L/2.1 US gal
Bore x Stroke Ratio	56×50 mm (2.20×1.97 in)	54×54.5 mm (2.126×2.146 in)
Compression Ratio	7.4:1 (Corrected)	8.3:1 (Ex valve open); 9.9:1 (Ex valve close)
Displacement	123 cm³ / 7.5 in³	124 cm³ / 7.6 in³
Horsepower	23 – 26 hp (17 – 19 kW) @ 10,500 RPM	41 hp (30.2 kW) @ 11,500 RPM
Maximum Torque	16.7 Nm (1.7 kgf-m, 12.3 ft-lb) @ 9,500 RPM – RM125M; 17.5 Nm (1.79 kgf-m, 12.9 ft-lb) @ 8,500 RPM – RM125 S	27.1 Nm (2.8 kgf-m, 20.25 ft-lb) @ 10,500 RPM
Top Speed	65 mph (105 km/h)
Air Filtration	Wet polyurethane filter	Polyurethane foam element
Lubrication	Fuel/oil premixture of 20:1 (5%)	Fuel/oil premixture of 30:1
Engine Oil & Quantity	750 ml/0.8 US quarts (change); 800 ml/0.8 US quarts (overhaul) SAE 10W-40 w/ API grade SJ+ meeting JASO MA standards

Drivetrain

A wet, automatic clutch system, coupled with a chain-and-sprocket system delivered energy to wheels of all models of the RM125. 

The gearing can differ slightly depending on the model year of the bike but it is still an integral part of the bike’s speedy acceleration (the first-year RM125s had Straight-cut drive gears). 

The RM125’s transmission initially featured a reverse-free 5-speed gearbox which was later transformed to a six-speed constant mesh later in the year.

	1975 Suzuki RM 125	2006 Suzuki RM 125
Clutch	Wet multi-plate, automatic, centrifugal type
Transmission Type	5-speed constant mesh	6-speed constant mesh, return
Gearshift Pattern	1-down, 4-up	1-down, 5-up
Final Drive	#428TM chain, 126 links	Chain drive DID 520DMA2, 114 links
Primary Reduction Ratio	3.389 (61/18)	3.368 (64/19)
Final Drive Ratio	4.286 (60/14) – solid-mount rear sprocket	4.250 (51/12)
Transfer Gear Ratio	Low – 2.143 (30/14) 2nd – 1.588 (27/17) 3rd – 1.250 (25/20) 4th – 1.045 (23/22) 5th – 0.913 (21/23)	Low – 2.071 (29/14) 2nd – 1.687 (27/16) 3rd – 1.444 (26/18) 4th – 1.200 (24/20) 5th – 1.052 (20/19) Top – 0.950 (19/20)

Ignition

The first model of this dirt bike featured the Pointless Electronic Ignition (PEI) that had its CDI unit located in the front of the air purifier case when it first came out. 

In the case of the short-lived S model, it was changed to a CDI unit that was enlarged and placed near the top of the headtube using an attached bracket. 

Due to the shift in CDI location, it became possible to modify the air cleaner’s case to be able to fit larger boots for the rubber connector.

For the battery, it is not the case that the manufacturer did indicate the preferred format to be used on this model of the Suzuki RM125 in the instruction manual. 

You can however test to see if a YTX7L-BS model would be compatible with the motorcycle. 

It’s the same battery type that is used on all of the other Suzuki motorcycles of the 125-cc range. Or, consult your local dealer to determine which batteries are compatible with your model.

1975 – 2006 Suzuki RM 125
Ignition	Electronic Ignition (CDI)
Ignition Timing	5° B.T.D.C @ 1,000 RPM
Spark Plug	NGK R6918B-8, 0.55 – 0.65 mm (0.022 – 0.026 in) gap Torque specs: 17.5 Nm (1.75 kgf-m, 12.5 lb-ft)
Generator	Flywheel magneto w/ 5-pole stator
Starting System	Primary kick
Battery	12V 6 Ah/(10 HR) Maintenance-free, YTX7L-BS format
Battery Dimensions	114 x 71 x 131 mm (4.50 x 2.81 x 5.19 in)

Suzuki RM125 Tires & Brakes

The front and rear brake sizes were originally 130 millimeters and then changed to 250 mm/240mm discs. 

The rubber used with the two-wheeler was changed 4 times during its production. For the front, 3.00-21-4PR and back 3.00-18-4PR tires came on the first model of the RM125 and were in use until 1979. 

The 1980-to-1985 versions featured 1990/80-21 (front) as well as 120/80-18 (rear) tires. The most current sizes can be found from models from ’86 until ’08. 

The MX-style knobby tires mounted on aluminum rims decreased the amount of slippage that occurs on slippery surfaces and gave riders the necessary stability on tracks made of dirt.

1975 – 2006 Suzuki RM 125
Wheel Composition	Aluminum
Front Tire	Dunlop® Sports D742F/D756F (non-U.S.) 80/100-21 51M
Rear Tire	Dunlop® Sports D756F 100/90-19 57M
Off-road/road air pressure (F/R)	70 – 110 kPa (0.7 – 1.1 kg/cm2, 10 – 16 psi)
Rim Size (F/R)	1.60 × 21 / 1.85 × 19
Tread Depth Limit	4 mm (0.16 in)
Front Brake Type	250-mm disc brake w/ dual brake calipers, hydraulically operated
Rear Brake Type	240-mm disc brake w/ floating brake caliper, hydraulically operated

Suspension

From the beginning, from the beginning, the Suzuki RM 125 provided generous rear and front-wheel travel, ranging within the 7-to-9-inch limit throughout its first decade. 

If that weren’t sufficient, it also introduced its “Full Floater” rear suspension in the 1981 model which was one-upped by Yamaha by a few inches.

The suspension used the same rise-rate linkage many manufacturers had integrated with their motorbike designs at the time. 

The principal difference was the fact that it utilized floating linkages that were attached to the top of the suspension’s bottom and pull rods to connect the whole suspension and the swingarm. 

Because of this, the later-year versions of RM125 (and other motocross wheelers) are capable of tackling more difficult trails as well as more aggressive jumps.

1975 Suzuki RM 125	2006 Suzuki RM 125
Rake, Trail	61°, 123 mm (7.48 in)	27° 30’, 115 mm (4.53 in)
Steering Angle	Refer to ’75 Suzuki RM125 service manual	45° (right & left)
Turning Radius		2.3 m (7.5 ft)
Ground Clearance	245 mm (9.6 in)	350 mm (13.8 in)
Wheelbase	1,360 mm (53.5 in)	1,450 mm (57.1 in)
Front Suspension Type, Travel	Telescopic fork, hydraulic damper, 190 mm (7.48 in)	Inverted telescopic, pneumatic/coil spring, oil damped, 310 mm (12.2 in)
Rear Suspension Type, Travel	Swingarm, hydraulic damper 5-way adjustable spring w/ gas/oil type shocks, 198 mm (7.80 in)	Link-type swingarm w/ rebound & compression adjustable gas shocks, 310 mm (12.2 in)

Dimensions & Capacities

There’s not much variation in the overall dimensions and weight between the RM125 models. 

However, the 1986 model stands out for the improvements it received. Suzuki specifically provided the RM125G with the new, more durable frame, and many of its components were reduced by nearly half.

The “Full Floater” rear suspension was kept, but it had new swings as well as an eccentric cam and the link system (for increased aggressivity as well as damping). 

It is interesting to note that dry mass is virtually not affected by these changes, aside from the larger size of the carb and other upgrades in the electric and suspension components.

1975 Suzuki RM 125	2006 Suzuki RM 125
Length	2,040 mm (80.3 in)	2,145 mm (84.4 in)
Width	860 mm (33.9 in)	830 mm (32.7 in)
Height	Refer to ’75 Suzuki RM125 service manual	1,275 mm (50.2 in)
Seat Height (Unloaded)	901 mm (35.5 in)	950 mm (37.4 in)
Dry Weight	86 Kg (190 lbs)	87 Kg (192 lbs)

Exterior

1976 RM125A models were specifically equipped with Chromoly frame made of chrome-molybdenum in comparison to the steel that the rest of the trims and models included. 

The double-cradle chassis was strong enough, more enhancements were made in 2004. These included improvements to the RM125 seating height and brake shave as well as the suspension systems.

1975 – 2006 Suzuki RM 125
Frame	Semi double-cradle, Steel
Body Material	Plastic
Front/Rear Fender Flares	Standard
Upper/Lower Fairing	N/A
Chain Guards	N/A
Fork Guards	Standard
Skid Plate	N/A

On the exterior, the bike was with handlebars, grips, handgrips fork guards, cover covers for the exterior but without illumination whatsoever. 

In addition, the Suzuki RM125s models were offered for sale in Champion Yellow. It is necessary to outfit the bike with a headlight, turn signals, and horn (among many other items) in order to transform your motorbike into a road-legal bike. 

When you’re done you could also consider the Enduro Computer Kit (view at Amazon) to help keep the speed of your bike and its mileage under control.

How Much Is a RM 125?

Internet resources for the pre-2000 RM125 MSRPs are difficult to find. In the context of the dirt bike price to Japan at the time of 1979 (Y=255,000), the retail value ranged from $2,290 during the 70s until $5,099 in 2008. 

However, prices for trade-ins vary between $85 and $6,305 and are available in Nada Guides. Incredibly, auction listings are priced higher than trade-in values and range in the range of $900 (mainly found on Craigslist) to $9,790.

To help you The table below provides an exhaustive list of the retail prices for the entire range of RM125 models:

Year – Trim – Model #	Retail/Trade-In Values
1975 RM125	N/A
1976 RM125A/S	$685 – $4,990
1977 RM125B	$685 – $5,635
1978 RM125C	$685 – $6,305
1979 RM125	$685 – $5,635
1980 RM125T	$685 – $6,305
1981 RM125X	$685 – $4,345
1982 RM125Z	$685 – $6,305
1983 RM125D
1984 RM125E	$685 – $5,635
1985 RM125F	$685 – $3,055
1986 RM125G	$840 – $4,360
1987 RM125H	$685 – $4,140
1988 RM125J	$685 – $4,267
1989 RM125K	$685 – $4,599
1990 RM125L	$685 – $4,099
1991 RM125M	$685 – $2,365
1992 RM125N	$685 – $3,055
1993 RM125P	$685 – $2,365
1994 RM125R
1995 RM125S	$225 – $1,560
1996 RM125T	$255 – $1,800
1997 RM125V	$270 – $1,925
1998 RM125W	$350 – $2,085
1999 RM125X	$455 – $2,285
2000 RM125Y	$610 – $2,795
2001 Suzuki RM125K1	$85 – $3,000
2002 RM125K2	$370 – $490
2003 RM125K3	$405 – $535
2004 RM125K4
2005 RM125K5	$545 – $720
2006 RM125K6	$625 – $820
2007 RM125K7	$680 – $895

Improvements Post-1975

Contrary to some of its comparable class models, the Suzuki was able to make a number of important mechanical design, aesthetic, and design improvements over its lifespan including suspension and engine enhancements being among the most sought-after. 

The following are notable modifications Suzuki made to the motocrosser (Source: U.S. Suzuki Motor Corp. Service Bulletin RM-1 May 1, 1975):

• The 1976 Suzuki RM 125A models were the first models in the series to have an exhaust pipe with a high-drawn or up-swept design that improved the speed and competitiveness of the bike. 
• The RM125S models featured the pipe dangled beneath the engine.
• It was in 1976 that the S model eliminated the large caps on the top that model M included, and was accompanied by larger carburetors, an increase in jetting power, and angular-drilled holes that let fuel escape the needle valve at a lower level and flow directly to the bowl of float.
• The engine (RM125S) included an engine valve that was a piston, unlike the reed valve of model A. Furthermore, additional holes were made into the skirt of the piston to help cool the exhaust bridge port section.
• The RM125S hand-built exhaust pipes consisted of rolled steel pieces that were joined by welding instead of folded longitudinal seams. It was slightly larger in diameter.
• The first “Full Floater” swingarm and liquid cooling began in 1981.
• Rework of all barrel cylinder ports (by hand)
• A pipe with a diameter of about 1.2 inches and a rib to stiffen it was welded over and beneath the bike’s stinger bulb in order to keep it from breaking at the point it reaches the bottom of the chamber for expansion.
• Extra L-shaped parts were placed beneath the bolt heads to secure the ends of the springs which held the pipe for the head and the chrome collar for exhaust in position.
• The RM125B models featured a larger front axle leading to the exhaust pipe. In addition, the bore of the muffler was shorter and the bore was made longer to improve bottom-end performance. Then, it was squared into 54 x 54 millimeters.
• The RM125G of 1986 had the latest power mill, which was smaller and lighter than the previous models. The engine also featured an entirely new piston as well as an AEC (Automatic Exhaust Control) system, which provided the machine with a wider powerband.
• A connecting rod that is 8 millimeters longer along with a redesigned flat-top piston as well as exhaust ports, as well as new exhaust valves that provide improved performance and torque at high and mid-high RPMs for the RM Model 125K4. In addition, a revamped rear linkage system, a thicker front fork, and a longer outer fork tube have contributed to better handling.
• 2007 models came with a number of design changes, including race-ready gripper seats as well as a revamped graphics scheme.
• The model’s performance was gradually increasing in terms of the capacity of the fuel tank as well as the horsepower, torque, and speed ratings across all models.

About Suzuki

Established in 1909, Suzuki Motor Corporation did not begin its journey in the automobile industry. 

Its humble beginnings date back to weaving looms at Hamamatsu, Japan. It wasn’t until 1937 that the manufacturer of Suzuki’s RM125 thought about diversification, and decided to make small-sized cars. 

The company concluded this venture in the year 1935 and hasn’t ever looked back since.

From the creation of prototype vehicles, Suzuki moved on to the production of mass-produced motorbikes, motor cars, and gas-powered engines. 

Suzuki was the Japanese company was one of the first companies to introduce the rack-and-pinion steering method. 

At present, Suzuki is globally renowned as a firm to reckon with when it comes to making 4WD vehicles, motorcycles as well as internal combustion motors.

Conclusion – Suzuki RM 125 Review

For those who love 2-strokes, there is nothing better than a 125-cc engine that is well-prepared for a Motocross track.

This is precisely what the Suzuki RRM125 offers. The RM125 is a great bike with a lot of assets and a track record of championship-winning that cannot be overlooked. 

It’s genuinely enjoyable however it is also a challenging ride that has fewer risks and anxiety than comes with larger displacement bikes. 

Modified, it is an extremely capable racer, and is a formidable opponent in dirt tracks. In its stock configuration, it offers a better sense of security, which helps increase confidence among riders who are developing their skills and technique in handling speed at corners and general technical riding.

If you’re in search of an aggressive two-wheeler that offers an ideal blend of the two (and more) Look for the legendary Suzuki RM 125!

Does Suzuki still make RM125?

The rm125 and the Rm250 were eliminated because of the decline in demand for two-stroke motorcycles for motocross.

Is the RM125 a good bike?

The RM125 is a complete fantasyland in a two-stroke performance. It’s fast off the start gate, quick in turns, lightweight as a feather but still has plenty of power on the jumps. It’s way that is easy to control and has strength like no similar two-stroke 125 in its class. It rides the way you want to. Overall, it’s a great bike.

Are Suzuki dirt bikes any good?

When it comes to dirt motorcycles, Suzuki is one of the leading brands. The DRZ400 and DR-650 bikes are remarkable, as are some who refuse to ride any other kind of motorbike. Also, Suzuki’s dirt motorcycles are the top for training novices.

Does Suzuki make a 125?

This is the DRZ125L that will ensure that younger and smaller size riders can tackle the dirt. A larger front tire of 19 inches and 16 inches rear tires and disc brakes in the front give big bike performance on a motorcycle that is size-appropriate for the.

How fast does a Suzuki 125 go?

Dirt bikes with the capacity of 125cc engines are believed to have top speeds that range between 55-60 miles per hour. Conditions on the road that are downhill and riders with heavy loads can increase the speed of operation above the range.

Is a Suzuki DRZ 125 a trail bike?

What is the DRZ125? It’s a 125cc four-stroke mountain bike suitable for teens and short adult riders. It’s a simple, low-tech to-handle dirt bike that’s inexpensive and reliable for those just beginning your journey.

Did Suzuki stop making dirt bikes?

However, gradually but surely, due to many factors, Suzuki began withdrawing from motocross competitions around the globe. By the end of 2011, they decided to put off their factory-owned motocross team in America and outsourced their racing to their affiliate Yoshimura R&D.

How reliable are Suzuki motorcycles?

Suzuki motorbikes have been highly rated by consumers in reviews of their reliability. They’re also among the most affordable bikes to maintain and own. Maintenance by the owner is an essential aspect in determining the bike’s durability and reliability.

What brand dirt bike is the best?

Suzuki RM125 FAQ