Vehicle Segment:
Sportbike/Hypersport
Target Audience:
Performance-oriented riders seeking a powerful, capable sportbike for touring and spirited riding.
Competitors:
Honda CBR900RR, Yamaha FZR1000, Kawasaki ZX-9R (later models), Ducati 916.
Design Philosophy:
A blend of accessible power, comfortable ergonomics for a sportbike, and Suzuki's renowned reliability.
Aerodynamics:
Full fairing designed for rider protection and improved high-speed stability.
Engine:
Detailed disassembly, assembly, inspection, and repair procedures for the 937cc inline-four engine.
Fuel System:
Carburetor overhaul and adjustment, fuel pump operation, fuel tank and lines.
Ignition System:
Ignition timing, coil testing, spark plug specifications, CDI unit.
Cooling System:
Radiator, fan operation, coolant specifications, thermostat, water pump.
Transmission:
Clutch operation, gear selection, gearbox disassembly and assembly, lubrication requirements.
Chassis And Suspension:
Front fork (telescopic) disassembly, service, and adjustment; rear monoshock suspension inspection and service; swingarm and linkage maintenance.
Brakes:
Front and rear brake caliper service, master cylinder overhaul, brake fluid specifications, bleeding procedures, disc inspection.
Electrical System:
Wiring diagrams, starter system, charging system (alternator/stator, regulator/rectifier), lighting, instrumentation, battery specifications.
Bodywork And Frame:
Fairing removal and installation, seat, fuel tank mounting, frame inspection.
Maintenance:
Routine service, oil changes, filter replacements, chain adjustment, spark plug replacement, brake pad inspection, coolant flush.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic charts for common starting, running, and electrical issues.
Repair:
Detailed, step-by-step instructions for component disassembly, repair, and reassembly across all major systems.
Technical Specifications:
Torque specifications for all fasteners, engine clearances, electrical component resistance/voltage values.
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering everything from basic rider maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, with detailed diagnostic information.
File Type:
Likely PDF, often searchable and printable. Quality of scans can vary if not official.
Resolution And Clarity:
Varies by source; professional reproduction should be high-resolution for clear diagrams and text.
Binding:
N/A (Digital format implies no physical binding).
Paper Quality:
N/A (Digital format implies no physical paper).
Engine Type:
Liquid-cooled, DOHC, 16-valve, inline-four cylinder
Displacement:
937 cc (57.2 cu. in.)
Bore X Stroke:
73.0 mm x 55.0 mm
Compression Ratio:
10.5:1
Horsepower:
Approx. 125-135 hp (claimed at crankshaft, varies by market and testing)
Torque:
Approx. 65-70 lb-ft (claimed at crankshaft, varies by market and testing)
Carburetion:
Four Mikuni BSF36 CV carburetors
Fuel Capacity:
Approx. 5.8 US gallons (22 Liters)
Oil Capacity:
Approx. 3.6 US quarts (3.4 Liters) with filter change
Recommended Oil:
API SG, SAE 10W-40 motorcycle specific oil (refer to manual for exact Suzuki recommendations)
Length:
Approx. 84.1 in (2135 mm)
Width:
Approx. 29.5 in (750 mm)
Height:
Approx. 45.5 in (1155 mm)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 57.1 in (1450 mm)
Dry Weight:
Approx. 463 lbs (210 kg)
Wet Weight:
Approx. 494 lbs (224 kg) (fully fueled, fluids)
Seat Height:
Approx. 31.9 in (810 mm)
Crash Test Data:
N/A (Motorcycle safety is typically not rated by standardized automotive bodies like NHTSA or IIHS).
Braking System:
Dual front disc brakes (320mm), single rear disc brake (240mm). Often equipped with 4-piston calipers front.
Frame Construction:
Aluminum twin-spar frame for rigidity and light weight.
Lighting:
Halogen headlamp, taillight, and turn signals for good visibility.
Audio System:
N/A (No factory infotainment system typical for this era of sportbike).
ABS:
N/A (ABS was not commonly available on sportbikes of this vintage and typically not standard on the RF900R).
Gauge Cluster:
Analog speedometer and tachometer, with auxiliary gauges for fuel level, coolant temperature, and indicator lights.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first (refer to manual for specific Suzuki recommendation).
Spark Plug Replacement:
Typically around 7,500 - 10,000 miles, depending on plug type and usage (refer to manual for exact spec).
Chain Lubrication And Adjustment:
Every 500 miles or after washing/rain.
Coolant:
Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze, 50/50 mix with distilled water. Suzuki recommends their own coolant or equivalent.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 4 (refer to manual for specific Suzuki DOT rating recommendation).
Carburetor Synchronization:
CV carbs can lose synchronization over time, affecting smooth running and idle.
Cam Chain Tensioner:
Automatic cam chain tensioners can sometimes fail or become weak, leading to rattling noises.
Electrical Connectors:
Corrosion or loose connections in electrical connectors can lead to intermittent issues.
Suspension Seals:
Fork seals can wear over time, leading to oil leaks.
Suzuki Legacy:
Suzuki has a long history in motorcycle manufacturing, known for performance-oriented bikes across various classes.
Rf Series Development:
The RF900R was an evolution of Suzuki's powerful inline-four sportbikes, aimed at providing a more accessible and refined performance package than its predecessors.
Predecessor:
Often seen as a successor or alternative to the GSX-R series in terms of sporting intent, but with a focus on broader usability.
Manufacturing Location:
Primarily Japan
Key Updates During Generation:
Minor cosmetic changes and potential ECU tuning adjustments across model years, but the core platform remained consistent.
Motorcycle Of The Year:
While not a specific 'Motorcycle of the Year' winner, the RF900R was well-regarded by motorcycle publications for its performance and value proposition in its class during its production run.
Performance Reviews:
Consistently received positive reviews for its powerful engine, stable handling, and relative comfort compared to more track-focused sportbikes.
Emissions Standards:
Compliant with prevailing emissions standards for the respective model years and regions.