VOL. 54 ISSUE 12 MARCH 28, 2017 P103
CRF450X and the WR450R. It is
just too much like the 2009 RM-
Z450 motocross machine to be
considered a true off-road bike.
The low-speed pop-stall and flame
out issues at lower rpms isn't at all
conducive to true off-road riding
and a clutch that fades under any
abuse only contributes further to
the stalling issues.
And then there is the gas tank.
The RMX's small 1.6-gallon gas
tank, the same one that comes on
the RM-Z450 motocross bike, is a
major strike against it. It's just not
big enough for even moderately
long rides. On average, after only
30 miles of riding, the low-fuel light
lets you know you that you're about
to run out. You are down to fumes
anywhere from 35-45 miles de-
pending on ride style. No bueno.
But the Suzuki has plenty of
strong points. Turning and han-
dling are great. It turns just like its
MX cousin (which is fantastic) and
handling is precise. Ergos are com-
fortable, too. And when the engine
isn't cutting out at slow speeds, it's
actually well mannered, delivering
lots of power in a super-smooth
and very controllable manner.
Bottom line? The RMZ450X
could very well have landed at the
top of this list if not for its stalling is-
sues that, again, have no easy fix.
(A tiny gas tank and a weak clutch
didn't help its cause, either.)
Like its MX cousin, the RMX turns like
no other—in a good way!
SUZUKI
RMx450Z
NOTABLE FEATURES
•Fuel-Injection
•Electronic Meter/Enduro
Computer
•Electric Starting w/Kick Backup
•Full Plastic Skid Plate
NOTABLE NUMBERS
MSRP: $8999
Curb Weight: 273 lbs.
Seat Height: 37.4 in.
Ground Clearance: 12.8 in.
Fuel Capacity: 1.6 gal.
3
rd
PLACE
