Ryan Nitzen | October 22, 2024
Suzuki is celebrating 50 years of the RM model as 2025 marks the 50th anniversary of the classic 1975 RM125. The brand took to Perris Raceway, California’s oldest running motocross track, to unveil the 2025 models and commemorate the historic milestone. Former legends and champions—such as George Holland, Brad Lackey, Damon Huffman, Buddy Antunez, Larry Brooks, Tim Ferry, Danny LaPorte, Greg Albertyn and more—were in attendance.
Suzuki celebrated 50 years of the RM motocross model at Perris Raceway. Many Suzuki legends made an appearance.
Adding to the nostalgia was a timeline marking nearly all of Suzuki’s past machines, accomplishments and titles. They included various historic bikes that coincide with the “Eras” theme featured on the new 2025 models.
A variety of vintage motorcycles were on display, including a 1973 TM125 and TM400, the predecessors to the RM namesake. Halfway through 1975, the first Suzuki motorcycle branded RM was introduced—the RM125, which was essentially an updated TM125 with laid-down shocks. In 1976, the first RM250 emerged. It featured an up-pipe, as did the 1976 RM125A model. Suzuki had some of these historic bikes on display at Perris, as well as several other later 1980, 1990 and on-up RM models. For the more modern era, Suzuki brought Ken Roczen’s Pro Motocross-winning RM-Z450 from 2016 along with his current Progressive Ecstar H.E.P. race bike.
(L-R) Chase Rastegar, Chris Wheeler, Cole Gress, Pat Alexander, Danny LaPorte, George Holland, Scott Burnworth, Brad Lackey, Damon Huffman, Greg Albertyn, Buddy Antunez, Tony Berluti, Colt Nichols and Larry Brooks attended Suzuki’s 50th anniversary of the RM motocrosser. Other Suzuki legends not shown include techs Hide Sezaki and Shoji Tanaka.
“Celebrating 50 years of RM heritage was very special for us,” said Chase Rastegar, Communications Manager of Suzuki Motor USA. “Throughout the years, Suzuki has had such a strong impact on the motocross community. Although we weren’t able to have all of Suzuki’s past legends show up to the event, it was amazing to be able to connect and share stories with the ones who did. Watching past legends meet new generations and seeing vintage RMs next to our new RM-Zs really brought into perspective how far this industry has progressed. One thing hasn’t changed for sure, and that’s the passion we all share for the sport. This celebration was a great reminder of that.”
One of the bikes Suzuki had on display was this immaculate 1973 TM125, the predecessor to the first RM, the 1975 RM125.
Brad Lackey was the first American to win the prestigious 500cc Motocross World Championship in 1982. Of course, Lackey was on a Suzuki.
Suzuki will offer retro-era graphics for the current RM-Z250 and RM-Z450 models to honor the RM lineage. One of the options is this 1990s-era “splatter” graphic kit.
For 2025, Suzuki announced that all RM Army Edition RM-Z models would include era-themed graphic kits. Buyers can choose their preferred style with five different options, which include the classic green stripe from the ’70s, the yellow and blue from the 1980s, the wild pink splatter prints of the ’90s, the Carmichael-inspired 2000s, or the modern kit. RM Army models also include a full Pro Circuit exhaust system at no extra charge.
Here is the press release issued by Suzuki regarding the 50th anniversary of the RM…
Suzuki Motor USA, LLC celebrates the 50th anniversary of the legendary RM motocross line that started in 1975 with five unique graphics kits, each paying homage to a distinct era of Suzuki’s motocross history.
Brea, CA (October 15, 2024) – Suzuki Motor USA, LLC celebrates the 50th anniversary of the legendary RM motocross line that started in 1975. Suzuki’s journey in motocross began 10 years prior to that in 1965, when it became the first Japanese manufacturer to compete in the Motocross World Championship. This bold move set the stage for decades of success, marked by technological advancements and relentless competition.
As the years progressed, Suzuki continued to innovate, with the RM series making its debut in 1975 with the RM125. This period saw Suzuki’s rise as a dominant force in motocross, producing machines like the RM125, known for its advanced suspension and lightweight design. The RM series quickly became a symbol of championship-winning performance. That legacy continues today with the RM-Z line.
To commemorate 50 years of RM motocross bike, Suzuki has enhanced the popular RM Army Edition kit offering that comes free with any 2025 RM-Z250 and 450 purchased through December 31st, 2025.*
As a tribute to five decades of motocross excellence, Suzuki is introducing five unique graphics kits, each paying homage to a distinct era of Suzuki’s motocross history. From the early days of the 70s livery to the modern design of championship-winning RM-Zs, these graphics kits connect the past with the present. Riders can show their pride by choosing their favorite era, enhancing their RM-Z with the same spirit that propelled Suzuki to the top of motocross championships throughout history.
Every purchase of a new 2025 RM-Z250 or RM-Z450 includes an RM Army Edition kit*, that includes the Pro Circuit RM Army Edition T-6 full system exhaust and your choice of an era-specific Throttle Syndicate graphics kit, allowing riders to personalize their bikes with iconic Suzuki designs. Each kit was meticulously crafted to bring back the spirit of those winning machines, reflecting the aesthetics of some of Suzuki’s golden years in motocross.
Read more about the RM Army Edition kit HERE
To learn more visit suzukicycles.com or see your local Suzuki dealer today.
*Pro Circuit RM Army Edition T-6 Full System Exhaust: Titanium Silencer Shell with Carbon End Cap, Stainless Steel Header (Average Retail Value (ARV): $1,100.00), Throttle Syndicate RM Army Edition Graphics Kit (ARV:$149.99) Valid only on 2025 RM-Zs. Kit sent to dealer after retail registration. Installation not included. Offer ends 12/31/2024.
