Roczen on hid Suzuki’s Electric Start: A Work in Progress for 2025

 

When Suzuki first unveiled their electric start testing videos last season, the motocross world was buzzing with anticipation. The prospect of a manufacturer like Suzuki—known for its lightweight, raw power approach—integrating such a convenience feature into their high-performance race bikes was exciting. For many, it signaled a potential game-changer, and the thought of top-level riders like Ken Roczen zipping off the line with a simple push of a button became a very real possibility.

Fast forward to 2025, and while the electric start might have generated significant buzz, it’s nowhere to be found on the Suzuki RM-Z450 as of yet. Despite being in the thick of the racing season, with Ken Roczen leading the charge with the red plate, the beloved kickstarter is still in play. So, what’s the holdup?

We got the chance to ask Ken Roczen directly at the San Diego Supercross, where he gave us the inside scoop. When questioned about why the electric start was absent from the bike, Ken candidly explained, “Yeah, it was tested, it broke, and we have not revisited it yet, or it’s not been ready yet to throw it back on.”

There it is: despite testing it, the electric start simply didn’t pass Suzuki’s rigorous standards. In essence, the feature isn’t ready for race use just yet. While other manufacturers

have successfully integrated electric starts into their bikes for years, Suzuki is still working on making sure their system is reliable enough to stand up to the demands of top-tier motocross.

However, it’s not all bad news for Suzuki fans. While the electric start is still a “wait and see” feature, Roczen’s bike for 2025 does come equipped with a factory transmission, a critical piece of equipment that plays a pivotal role in his ability to contend for championships. The factory transmission allows for smoother, more consistent gear changes, giving him a crucial advantage when navigating the fast and demanding tracks of professional motocross.

Suzuki’s dedication to improving its bikes shows they aren’t resting on their laurels. They’re taking their time, making sure that any new technology—such as the electric start—meets the standards required at the highest levels of the sport. As for when the electric start will make its way to Suzuki’s race bikes? Only time will tell. But for now, the kickstarter remains a staple of the Suzuki RM-Z450, and Roczen continues to ride it like a true champion.

In the fast-paced world of motocross, nothing is ever certain, and that includes the timeline for new technology. As Suzuki works toward making the electric start a reality, all eyes will remain on Ken Roczen and his teammates as they push their machines to the limit—and as we wait to see if the electric start makes its long-awaited debut in the future.