else. The 2016 model is essen-
tially a 2015 with a few minor
updates.
For one, the RM-Z's Su-
zuki Holeshot Assist Control
(S-HAC), aka launch control,
which the Suzuki first got last
year, has been tweaked via
new map settings. Suzuki felt
that last year's settings could
be a little better. Suzuki's HAC
system has two modes (not
including stock) that alters igni-
tion timing: Mode A (less ag-
gressive) is for loose surfaces
and the other, mode B (more
aggressive), is for more tacky
surfaces. The whole idea is to
get you off the line smoother in
a variety of conditions with less
wheelspin, resulting in more
holeshots.
Suzuki also redesigned the
front-brake caliper. It has a new
shape and the redesign was
more for saving weight than
anything else. It is said to be 10
percent lighter.
Suzuki also said that the
graphics have been changed;
you have to stare at 'em for a
while to figure out the differ-
ences.
On the track, the 2016 RM-
Z450 feels the same as the
2015, which it should. After all,
it's essentially the same bike.
But, that's not a bad thing. After
its overhaul last year, the RM-Z
is still an outstanding machine,
changes or not. We didn't really
notice the retuned S-HAC sys-
tem, at least not on our first day
on the bike, nor did we notice
the front-brake change, but
what we did notice—again—was
the bike's still outstanding mo-
tor and great turning prowess.
Even though the RM-Z450
did not win our 2015 450 MX
Shootout, it had one of our fa-
vorite motors, and still does. It
might not be the fastest or most
powerful mill out there, but it is
one of the most manageable
and most fun to play with. It has
VOL. 52 ISSUE 29 JULY 21, 2015 P55
Okay, we've had it; it's time
for new plastic. Please!
