From here, we took the well-used machine out for two more solid rides to determine the toll that the hours had taken. Compared to when we had given Barrett the bike more than 20 hours prior, the motor had lost relatively little power, but the engine noise was noticeably up and the clutch was completely toast. Moreover, the all-too-familiar transmission goblins were still causing the Suzuki to skip out of gear on increasingly frequent occasions. After a final ride and a thorough washing, we rolled the RM-Z into the shop for the last time for its concluding teardown.
Seeing as the bike continued to feel great on the track, we decided to only do a motor teardown on the RM-Z, since the chassis and components were still in good shape. Ripping into the Suzuki's engine, we found a piston that looked fine but was ready for replacement. The cylinder showed the same shiny spots, but Dye had enough experience with the new engine to state that it wasn't a sign of damage, rather it was typical for the model. We used the same cylinder to reassemble the engine, although splitting the cases and removing the crankshaft proved to be a bigger challenge; you need to use a press. Our experience told us it was time for a new crank, so we replaced that as well. Upon reassembly it started on the first kick and sounded strong.
Overall, this Suzuki shows what can be expected from a 250F used at a high level. You simply have to take care of it. Left mostly stock, the Suzuki remained reliable all season long thanks to regular maintenance and a responsible testing crew. Although the '07 RM-Z has left the Dirt Rider stable, we have no doubt that this bike has many more seasons of good riding left in it.
Running Tally
Hours Since Last Update: 40.3
Hours on Bike: 87.3
Modifications: $2145.16
Elka Suspension modifications: $429.90 (fork revalve and labor, $195; fork oil, $19.95; shock revalve, $195; shock oil, $19.95)
One Industries Technoflex graphics: $134.90
Sunline double-diamond medium-compound grip kit: $16.95
Sunline Moto Ray hand guards: $69.95
2008 shift stopper spring: $2.26
Nuetech APE Attack bend bar ends: $99.95
Maintenance and Repairs (not including tires): $1626.87
Two piston kits: $242.70 ($121.35 ea. for piston, wrist pin, circlips and rings)
Two gasket sets: $170.54 ($85.27 ea.)
Cylinder: $424.39
Crank: $407.27
Front wheel bearings: $28.34
New head: $470.15
Intake cam: $214.70
Exhaust cam: $241.63
Sunline AVOne OSX handlebar kit: $129.95
9 bottles Amsoil 10W-40 oil: $80.55 ($8.95 ea.)
4 Michelin rear tires (1 S12 and 3 M12): $389 (S12, $95 ea.; M12, $98 ea.)
3 Michelin M12 front tires: $264 ($88 ea.)
7 Ready Racing air filters: $69.65 ($9.95 ea.)
2 Ready Racing stainless oil filters: $99.90 ($49.95 ea.)