🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Suzuki

Model:

RF900R

Model Variants:

RF900RS, RF900RT, RF900RV

Model Years:

1994, 1995, 1996, 1997

Engine Code General:

Water-cooled, four-stroke, DOHC, inline-four

Chassis Code General:

Aluminum twin-spar frame

👋 Introduction

Market Position:

The Suzuki RF900R was positioned as a sport-touring motorcycle, offering a blend of performance, comfort, and aerodynamic fairing for longer rides. It competed in a segment with bikes like the Kawasaki ZX-9R (early models), Yamaha FZR1000, and Honda CBR1000F.

Competitive Analysis:

The RF900R offered a potent engine and capable chassis that made it a strong contender, though sometimes overshadowed by its more track-focused siblings. Its emphasis on rider comfort and wind protection made it a practical choice for sport-touring enthusiasts.

Key Features:

Potent 937cc inline-four engine, aluminum twin-spar frame, fully adjustable suspension, aerodynamic fairing, comfortable ergonomics for a sportbike, strong braking performance.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Areas:

Complete service and repair of the Suzuki RF900R, RF900RS, RF900RT, RF900RV motorcycles covering all mechanical and electrical systems.

Page Count:

Approximately 600+

Manual Type:

Professional Motorcycle Repair Manual / Service Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Printed

📖 Manual Coverage

Systems Covered:

Engine (Disassembly, Reassembly, Tuning), Fuel System (Carburetors, Fuel Pump), Ignition System, Electrical System (Wiring Diagrams, Components), Cooling System, Lubrication System, Transmission (Gearbox, Clutch), Drivetrain (Chain Drive), Suspension (Front Forks, Rear Shock), Brakes (Front and Rear Discs), Wheels, Tires, Frame, Bodywork, Controls, Instruments, Troubleshooting.

Procedures Included:

Routine Maintenance (Oil Changes, Filter Replacement, Chain Adjustment), Engine Overhaul, Carburetor Synchronization and Jetting, Valve Adjustment, Ignition Timing, Electrical Troubleshooting, Suspension Fork Seal Replacement, Brake System Bleeding and Pad Replacement, Clutch Adjustment, Wheel Bearing Service, Detailed Component Disassembly and Reassembly Procedures, Diagnostic Flowcharts, Torque Specifications for all fasteners.

Technical Depth:

Comprehensive, covering everything from basic scheduled maintenance to complete engine and chassis rebuilds, including in-depth troubleshooting guides for common electrical and mechanical issues.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

N/A (Printed Format)

Print Quality:

High-quality reproductions of original factory service manuals, featuring clear diagrams, schematics, and text.

Binding Type:

Stapled or Perfect Bound, designed for durability in a workshop environment.

Paper Type:

Durable, high-quality paper stock resistant to shop fluids and wear.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

Water-cooled, four-stroke, DOHC, 16-valve, inline-four

Displacement:

937 cc (57.2 cu in)

Bore X Stroke:

74.0 mm x 54.5 mm (2.91 in x 2.15 in)

Compression Ratio:

11.3:1

Horsepower:

Approximately 125-135 hp @ 10,000 rpm (claimed)

Torque:

Approximately 65-70 lb-ft @ 7,500 rpm (claimed)

Fuel System Type:

Four Mikuni BST36 flat-slide carburetors

Fuel Capacity:

5.8 US gal (22 L)

Oil Type Specification:

API SG, SAE 10W-40 (or as specified in manual)

Oil Capacity With Filter Change:

Approximately 3.8 US qt (3.6 L)

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

6-speed, constant mesh

Clutch Type:

Wet multi-plate

Final Drive:

RK 525SO chain

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approximately 84.1 inches (2135 mm)

Width:

Approximately 29.9 inches (760 mm)

Height:

Approximately 48.0 inches (1220 mm)

Wheelbase:

Approximately 57.3 inches (1455 mm)

Dry Weight:

Approximately 463 lbs (210 kg)

Wet Weight:

Approximately 505 lbs (229 kg)

Front Suspension Type:

Telescopic, oil-damped, fully adjustable (preload, compression, rebound)

Front Fork Diameter:

43 mm

Rear Suspension Type:

Linkage type, oil-damped, fully adjustable (preload, compression, rebound)

Front Brake Type:

Dual hydraulic disc, 320 mm

Rear Brake Type:

Single hydraulic disc, 240 mm

Front Tire Size:

120/70ZR17

Rear Tire Size:

180/55ZR17

Wheel Type:

Cast aluminum, 3-spoke

🛡️ Safety Features

Safety Ratings:

As with most motorcycles of this era, specific independent safety ratings like Euro NCAP or IIHS are not applicable. Safety relies on rider skill, maintenance, and adherence to safe riding practices.

Active Safety Features:

Powerful dual front disc brakes, responsive handling, good visibility due to fairing.

Passive Safety Features:

Sturdy aluminum frame, aerodynamic fairing offering some rider protection from elements.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment Features:

Basic analogue instrumentation including speedometer, tachometer, fuel gauge, and indicator lights. No advanced infotainment or digital displays.

Driver Assistance Features:

N/A (No electronic rider aids like ABS or traction control were standard or commonly available).

Connectivity Features:

N/A.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil And Filter Change:

Every 3,000 miles (4,800 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first.

Air Filter Cleaning Inspection:

Every 3,000 miles (4,800 km).

Chain Lubrication Adjustment:

Every 500 miles (800 km) or after washing/riding in rain. Adjustment as needed for proper tension.

Valve Clearance Check:

Every 12,000 miles (19,000 km).

Spark Plug Replacement:

Every 7,500 miles (12,000 km) (refer to manual for specific plug type and gap).

Engine Oil Specification:

API SG, SAE 10W-40 Motorcycle Oil.

Coolant Specification:

Mixture of permanent antifreeze and distilled water (50/50 ratio) meeting ethylene glycol standards. Refer to manual for specific coolant type.

Brake Fluid Specification:

DOT 4.

Fork Oil Specification:

Specific viscosity grade (e.g., SAE 10W), check manual for exact specification and quantity.

Known Issues:

Carburetor synchronization drift leading to rough idling or poor throttle response. Stator or charging system issues. Cam chain tensioner wear. Clutch slave cylinder leaks. Fork seal leaks. Some units may experience voltage regulator failure over time.

Oil Filter Part Number Example:

Suzuki 16510-05240 or equivalent aftermarket (e.g., KN-132).

Air Filter Part Number Example:

Suzuki 13780-34B00 or equivalent aftermarket (e.g., KN-1383).

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Heritage:

Suzuki has a long and storied history in motorcycle manufacturing, known for performance-oriented sportbikes, versatile cruisers, and reliable off-road machines. The brand is synonymous with innovation and performance.

Model Evolution:

The RF900R was introduced in 1994 as Suzuki's flagship sport-touring motorcycle, evolving from the GSX-R lineage. It aimed to provide a more comfortable and versatile riding experience than the pure sportbikes while retaining significant performance capabilities. It was updated with minor cosmetic and specification changes through its production run.

Production Years:

1994-1997

Manufacturing Location:

Japan

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Recognitions:

While the RF900R may not have specific standout awards, it was generally well-received by motorcycle press for its performance and value proposition as a sport-tourer.