Suzuki may have pulled off the biggest surprise of the year with its 2015 RM-Z450.
The latest motor cross model in its range has some new goodies to tempt buyers such as a refettled engine and state of the art suspension. But where the appeal really shows is likely to be in the price, where this Suzuki looks a real bargain.
What does it cost?
Not very much is the answer to that. You’ll need – and I’m double checking the documentation here – just £6,399 to get hold of one of these beauties. This means that it will be one of the cheapest motor cross bikes in its class and certainly one of the best. It is comfortable to ride, balanced and immensely light at the same time.
How Does It Handle?
The Suzuki RM-Z450 is bang up to date, a cutting edge model that will set this bike apart from the rest. The familiar 450cc engine has been finely tuned and along with its excellent chassis the RM-Z450 is a joy to ride. It goes exactly where you point it and it is easy to handle even over the stickiest of terrain. Its decent low down torque gives the RM-Z450 good pick up out of the most difficult situations meaning you won’t need to worry too much about which gear you are in. On that point, the redesigned 5-speed box is incredibly slick and shifts like it has a quick-shifter.
The front suspension on this bike is its main asset. Following the introduction of the Showa SFF Fork in 2012, this new model goes one step further, with the departure of the traditional fork spring in favour of
the inner air chamber set-up.
Offering significant advantages in bike set-up, the SFF Air system allows riders to make set-up changes quickly and easily by simply adjusting air pressure in the internal air chamber.
Other benefits include
a reduction in overall weight and more consistent damping, due to
the removal of heat influence, normally associated with oil-filled forks. The
result is a bike that is light and easy to handle despite its huge power.
Verdict
The Suzuki RM-Z450 will represent incredible value for money and would still remain a creditable bike to own even at a higher price. It is likely to continue to dominate the motor cross scene as a result of its latest updates. Its powerful engine and new front suspension make it an easy bike to ride and control. The Suzuki RM-Z450 will take an incredible bike or rider to beat it.
Facts & figures
Model: Suzuki RM-Z450
Price: £6,399
Engine: 450cc 4 stroke dohc liquid cooled
Weight: 112kg
Seat Height: 955mm
Transmission: 5-speed constant mesh
Tank Size: 6.2 litres