Air Filter Cleaning – Replacement Guide for 2019 Suzuki RM85

Shop parts for a 2019 Suzuki RM85 Dirt Bike.

Proper air filter maintenance is essential for getting the best performance from your 2019 Suzuki RM85. A clean air filter keeps your engine free from dust, dirt, and debris, ensuring long engine life and maximum power delivery. This guide from MotoSport details everything you need for cleaning and replacing the air filter on your 2019 Suzuki RM85, with tips specific to this legendary mini motocrosser.

Why Air Filter Care Is Critical for Your RM85

The 2019 RM85 uses a high-performance, two-stroke engine that breathes through a foam air filter element located under the seat. Poor air filtration can lead to rapid engine wear or damage. Because the RM85 is a competition-ready machine, off-road environments will challenge the air filter with mud, sand, and fine dust. Consistent maintenance is vital.

Disassembly – Removing Your RM85 Air Cleaner

  • Start by removing the seat to access the airbox. On the RM85, this is a one-bolt job—simply unscrew the rear seat bolt for quick removal.
  • With the seat off, take off the air cleaner cap. You'll find a wing nut securing the air filter in place—loosen and remove it by hand.
  • Carefully pull out the air filter and its cage. Watch for any debris on the filter, cage, or in the intake tract.

Inspection – What to Look For

  • Check the foam for tears, hardening, or disintegration. Any damaged filter should be replaced immediately.
  • Look for an additional filter screen if you've added a protective cover for riding in deep mud or sand—Suzuki RM85 filter screens are popular for extra defense.

Cleaning the Air Filter

  • Tap the filter gently to remove loose dirt.
  • Wash the filter in a bucket with a solvent-safe cleaner or air filter detergent. Avoid gasoline, which breaks down glue seams and foam structure.
  • Rinse repeatedly in clean water, squeezing (never wringing) until all dirt and soap are gone.
  • Let the filter dry completely in a clean, dust-free area.

Oiling – The Critical Step

  • Saturate the dry filter with high-quality foam filter oil, massaging it throughout the foam for complete coverage. The oil should turn the filter a consistent tacky color.
  • Wipe away excess oil, especially along the inside edge where it seals to the airbox.
  • Apply a ring of air filter grease around the filter's rim and sealing edge. This creates a dust-proof barrier at the mounting surface.

Reinstallation

  • Check the airbox for dirt or debris before reinstalling the filter. Clean with a damp rag if needed, ensuring nothing falls into the intake.
  • Fit the filter on its cage and secure with the wing nut. Don't overtighten–it only needs to be snug.
  • Double-check the seal all around the filter rim. Then put the airbox cover and seat back on.

Replacement Intervals – What RM85 Owners Should Know

  • Clean the air filter after every ride in dusty or muddy conditions, or at least every two rides for general use.
  • If the foam is torn, excessively stained, or losing shape, replace it immediately. The RM85's smaller airbox means a neglected filter will impact throttle response faster than on larger bikes.

Pro Tip – RM85-Specific Considerations

  • The RM85 air filter design allows dirt to easily accumulate around the cage and rear of the airbox, so take extra time inspecting and wiping down these areas.
  • If you ride in wet or sandy conditions, consider running a filter screen or additional filter cover for increased protection—these are commonly used on the RM85 for long moto days.
  • Always keep a freshly oiled spare filter on hand for quick swaps between motos, especially for race weekends.

Keeping your 2019 Suzuki RM85 air filter clean & properly oiled ensures consistent power delivery and protects your investment. With these MotoSport-proven steps, you can ride harder and longer, knowing your engine is breathing clean.

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Disclaimer: This guide is provided for general informational purposes only and is not intended to replace your motorcycle's official owner's manual. Always refer to your manufacturer's documentation for model-specific instructions, torque specifications, safety procedures, and maintenance requirements. If you are unsure or inexperienced, consider seeking assistance from a qualified mechanic or technician.