🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Suzuki

Model:

RF900R

Year:

1996

Chassis Code:

GN78

👋 Introduction

Category:

Sportbike / Hyperbike

Era:

Mid-1990s performance motorcycle segment

Competitors:

Kawasaki Ninja ZX-9R, Honda CBR900RR Fireblade, Yamaha YZF1000R Thunderace

Engine Type:

Liquid-cooled, four-stroke, inline-four cylinder, DOHC

Frame Type:

Aluminum twin-spar frame

Suspension Setup:

Inverted front forks, Monoshock rear suspension

📋 Manual Details

Manual Type:

Factory Service Manual / Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital (PDF)

Page Count:

Approximately 300-400 pages (typical for this era and model)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine System:

Detailed overhaul, troubleshooting, component testing, lubrication, cooling system, exhaust system

Fuel System:

Carburetor service and adjustment (Mikuni VM), fuel pump, fuel lines, fuel tank maintenance

Transmission System:

Gearbox inspection, clutch operation, shifting mechanisms, transmission fluid specifications and replacement

Electrical System:

Wiring diagrams, ignition system, charging system (stator, regulator/rectifier), lighting, instrumentation, starting system

Suspension System:

Front fork (cartridge type) disassembly, assembly, oil levels, seals; rear shock absorber service and adjustment

Brake System:

Front and rear brake caliper service, master cylinders, brake fluid specifications, bleeding procedures, pad replacement

Cooling System:

Radiator service, fan operation, thermostat, coolant specifications and flush procedures

Chassis And Body:

Frame inspection, fairings, seat, fuel tank removal/installation, handlebars, footpegs

Maintenance:

Routine inspections, oil changes, filter replacements, chain adjustment, spark plug service, air filter cleaning/replacement

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic charts for common issues related to starting, running, braking, and electrical systems

Repair:

Step-by-step instructions for component disassembly, repair, and reassembly

Engine Overhaul:

Complete engine teardown, inspection, measurement, and rebuilding procedures

Carburetor Tuning:

Detailed procedures for synchronizing and adjusting the Mikuni VM carburetors

Depth Level:

Comprehensive (from basic maintenance to full engine rebuilds and complex electrical diagnostics)

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

PDF

Resolution:

High-resolution scans for clear text and legible diagrams

Searchability:

Searchable text for quick information retrieval

Binding Type:

Not applicable (Digital PDF)

Paper Type:

Not applicable (Digital PDF)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Displacement:

937 cc

Bore X Stroke:

73.0 mm x 55.0 mm

Compression Ratio:

10.5:1

Horsepower:

Approximately 135-140 hp @ 10,000 rpm (claimed at crank)

Torque:

Approximately 70-73 lb-ft @ 8,000 rpm (claimed at crank)

Carburetors:

4 x Mikuni VM29, constant-velocity carburetors

Fuel Tank Capacity:

20 Liters (5.3 US gallons)

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

6-speed constant mesh

Clutch Type:

Wet, multi-plate

Final Drive:

Chain drive

📐 Dimensions

Length:

2,120 mm (83.5 in)

Width:

760 mm (29.9 in)

Height:

1,190 mm (46.9 in)

Wheelbase:

1,470 mm (57.9 in)

Dry Weight:

217 kg (478 lbs)

Wet Weight:

Approximately 230-240 kg (fully fueled and ready to ride)

🛡️ Safety Features

Safety Ratings:

Not applicable for motorcycles in this era; focus on chassis stability and braking performance.

Braking System:

Dual front disc brakes with 4-piston calipers; single rear disc brake

Suspension Design:

Inverted front forks and linkage-type rear monoshock contribute to stability and handling

Frame Construction:

Rigid aluminum frame for predictable handling

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

N/A (Basic analog instrumentation: speedometer, tachometer, fuel gauge, coolant temperature gauge, indicator lights)

🔧 Maintenance

Engine Oil Change:

Every 3,000-5,000 km (1,800-3,000 miles) or 6 months

Oil Filter Replacement:

Every 3,000-5,000 km (1,800-3,000 miles) or with oil change

Spark Plug Replacement:

Every 10,000-15,000 km (6,000-9,000 miles)

Air Filter Cleaning:

Every 5,000-7,500 km (3,000-4,500 miles)

Chain Lubrication Adjustment:

Every 500-1,000 km (300-600 miles) and before long rides

Engine Oil Type:

API SG, JASO MA certified motorcycle oil (e.g., 10W-40)

Coolant Type:

Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze with water (50/50 mix recommended)

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 4

Fork Oil Type:

Suzuki Suspension Oil SS-04 or equivalent (SAE 5W)

Fork Oil Level:

130 mm (5.1 in) from top of fork tube with spring removed

Common Problems:

Carburetor synchronization drift, potential for charging system issues (regulator/rectifier), wear on suspension components, clutch slave cylinder seal leaks.

📚 Vehicle History

Manufacturer:

Suzuki Motor Corporation

Reputation:

Known for performance motorcycles, especially inline-fours.

Predecessor:

Suzuki GSX-R1100 (shared some engine design philosophy)

Positioning:

Positioned as a more road-biased, less track-focused hyperbike compared to the GSX-R line.

Production Years:

1990-1997

Manufacturing Origin:

Japan

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Awards And Recognition:

Generally praised for its strong inline-four engine and capable chassis for its time. Often reviewed favorably for its blend of sport and touring capability, though not typically subject to specific 'awards' in the automotive sense.