Behind Ricky Carmichael's RM-Z450 Photo Gallery

The chassis and swingarm have to remain stock so much of the adjustment for RC’s miniature stature is done in the footpegs.

Bridgestone was one of Ricky’s personal choices for his racing program. He made sure that his contract with Suzuki allows for him to choose whichever brand of tire he wants.

Carmichael’s front brake is the single most important feature on his machine. He can never get enough performance from the front binder according to his mechanic.

ProTaper has a handle on the controls department.

Keeping Ricky Carmichael’s bike sorted out and winning races takes a special mechanic. Mike Gosselaar has the distinction of wrenching RC through not one but two perfect seasons in his career.

A special Keihin carburetor uses a magnesium body.

Goose has stood by Ricky for many years now but his career didn’t start with the GOAT.

The clutch perch rotates on Teflon in case of a spill.

Remember when RC had that huge chunk taken out of his leg by his footpegs? He likes ‘em sharp and these babies are Factory Suzuki.

That brake line is the only stock part on Ricky’s front system.

A heat shield is used on the carburetor and fuel tank to keep the hot-running 4-stroke from boiling the fuel.

Pro Circuit supplies the exhaust from tip to tail.

Being a professional mechanic is a labor of love and RC’s bike reflects the amount of effort put in by Goose, literally.

The bike is only seeing action in select rounds this year, but it still commands plenty of attention in the pits.

It looks normal, but the position of the rear brake lever has been modified to suit Ricky’s personal tastes.

Not only does Suzuki install titanium bolts in every possible place, but they drill them out to save every possible ounce.

Ricky’s bike is a perfect blend of protection and perforation.

After being a Renthal guy over at Honda, RC made the switch to Tag Metals when he joined Makita Suzuki in 2005.

RC is another rider who installs the hot-start next to his throttle.

Factory hubs are mated to Excel rims.

You think you’ve got some man hours into your bike? How many washers have you drilled to save weight?

Hinson helps us out with some clutch components.

One Industries keeps things looking sharp for the Greatest of All Time and the rest of the Makita Suzuki team.

RC always says 'If I had a front brake that worked better than what I have I can go faster.'

Win, lose or draw, Mike Gosselaar is always there to find out what he can do to make his bike better. Luckily it's mostly been the winning side of things.