New model : 2003 Suzuki RM65 with needle roller bearings

Mini-motocross includes classes for all size and age kids, and the new RM65 is built for younger riders. It features aggressive styling in Suzuki Champion Yellow with white number plates, and a 64cc liquid-cooled reed-valve engine designed with the same kind of power-enhancing features found in the larger RM models. Like all the RMs, it features a composite-electro-plated aluminum cylinder for better heat transfer and better piston sealing-and power. The exhaust-port bridge is convex, reducing scuffing for longer piston life, and the cylinder itself is bolted directly to the crankcases without cylinder stud bolts. Wide, dual O-rings on the head pipe improved exhaust-system-to-cylinder sealing, and the oval-section exhaust silencer is repackable.

The engine is tuned to produce the type of mid-range torque and smooth throttle response that youngsters appreciate, with a large airbox, 24mm carburetor, four-petal reed valve and CDI ignition. The transmission and clutch are built for smooth shifting and short throws, the shift drum riding in needle roller bearings, and the ends of the shift forks are hardened to resist wear. And oil sight window makes it easy to check the transmission oil level.

The RM65 chassis is designed to accommodate a range of rider heights and weights. The single-backbone, dual-cradle high-tensile-steel-tube frame carries a rectangular steel swingarm using a progressive suspension linkage. Seat height can be adjusted with optional-length link rods available in 1mm length increments. Each 1mm change in link rod length raises or lowers the seat by 2mm.

Relatively flat handlebars work for riders with varying arm lengths, and tapered roller bearings in the steering head reduce the effort needed to turn the bars.

Leading-axle 33mm front forks with 0.27-rated springs deliver 210mm (8.3 inches of wheel travel and feature adjustable rebound damping. A nitrogen-charged piggyback-reservoir rear shock carries a 4.9-rated spring and delivers 240mm (9.4 inches) of wheel travel. Aluminum rims carry a 60/100-14 front tire and a 80/100-12 rear tire.

The left rear subframe tube is detachable, allowing easier access to the air filter and rear shock. Wide, cast-steel footpegs ride on thick brackets.

About The Author:

Mark Harris is a successful author and regular contributor to http://www.bearing-n-bearings.com. Keep things running smoothly with ball bearings, roller bearings, ball thrust bearings and tapered bearings.