The RM-Z450 still knows how to get in and out of the turns better than any of its rivals. PHOTOGRAPHY BY ADAM BOOTH
After getting some major updates for the 2015 model year, it comes as little surprise that the 2016 version of the Suzuki RM-Z450 takes on little changes, though we were expecting some long-awaited plastic updates that it didn’t get. Perhaps next year. Let’s hope so.
Last year, the RM-Z received changes to the aluminum frame to give it more flex and better feel, and it also joined the air fork wars. It was fitted with Showa’s latest-generation SFF-AIR Triple Chamber fork, which we thought worked well and had tons of potential, but was far too complicated for the average rider (most air forks are, for that matter). Not that you couldn’t figure it all out eventually, but these forks do require a lot of knowledge and constant attention. And that can get a little tiresome after a while. Still the new frame and fork benefitted the RM-Z450 greatly (we never liked the previous SFF spring fork).
It still looks nice but we’re ready for a change in the styling department.
The frame and Showa SFF-AIR Triple Chamber fork returns for 2016 as does nearly everything else. The 2016 model is essentially a 2015 with a few minor updates.
For one, the RM-Z’s Suzuki 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 ignition timing: Mode A (less aggressive) 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 launch control system was remapped for smoother and more controllable starts off the gate.
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 differences.
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 system, 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 motor and great turning prowess.
The 2016 RM-Z450 has a new front-brake caliper that is said to be 10 percent lighter.
Even though the RM-Z450 did not win our 2015 450 MX Shootout, it had one of our favorite 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 a great low-to-mid powerband; what it may lack on top and in over-rev, is made up for in ease of management. Its power is well placed and easy to use. Again, it might not have the most powerful motor out there, but it is one of the most efficient at putting the power to the ground.
The RM-Z’s motor isn’t changed, but that’s okay. It’s still one of the most manageable and fun to work with.
As always with the RM-Z, you can tailor its power a bit to each track with its three pre-tuned plug-in map couplers that come with it.
The RM-Z still isn’t the lightest bike in its class but it doesn’t feel that way in the air.
Once again, the RM-Z is a quick handling machine that works better at low speeds than it does at high speeds, especially on rough tracks. As speeds pick up, things can get a little twitchy and uneasy on the RM-Z. Its real forte is getting in and out of the turns quickly, which it does better than any other bike on the track; the tighter the track, the better the RM-Z450 works. Some things haven’t changed.
Suspension is the same as last year, which is good. The Showa air fork has tons of potential as long as you can get the setup right, which can sometimes be hit and miss. Right out of the crate, though, the fork works pretty well, but that’s just a starting point. Adjustment is pretty much limitless so when you find that sweet spot, life is real good.
Not only does the RM-Z450 turn well, it does a very good job getting the power to the ground.
The back end, however, is pretty much dialed in right from the get-go. Set the ride height (about 104mm) and you’re pretty much all set. All you’ll need to do is make a few clicks here and there to match whatever you end up with on the fork.
Unfortunately, Suzuki has not yet jumped on the oversized front-brake rotor bandwagon that all of the Japanese OEMs have. Still, the RM-Z’s front brake is good, it’s just that the bar has been raised to a new level and the RM-Z hasn’t caught up yet.
Overall, the 2016 RM-Z450 is just as good as before, only the most sensitive riders might notice the new S-HAC mapping and new front brake caliper; we need more time. But our first day on the RM-Z450 revealed pretty much what we already knew, that the RM-Z450 is still an outstanding machine despite its long-in-the-tooth looks. It’s a super fun bike to ride and still very potent on most tracks. Put it on a Supercross-style circuit, however, and this bike will really shine and be very hard to beat.
MSRP: $8749
SPECIFICATIONS
2016 Suzuki RM-Z450
Engine type: 4-stroke, 4-valve, liquid-cooled, DOHC, single
Bore x stroke: 96 x 62mm
Displcacement: 449cc
Compression ratio: 12.5:1
Fuel System: Fuel injection
Starting system: Primary kick
Lubrication system: Semi-dry sump
Primary Reduction Ratio: 63/24
Ignition system: Electronic Ignition (CDI)
Launch control: Suzuki Holeshot Assist Control (S-HAC)
Transmission: 5-speed
Frame: Aluminum
Handlebar: Aluminum Renthal Fatbar
Front suspension: Showa SFF-AIR Triple Chamber
Rear suspension: Showa single shock, linkage, fully adjustable
Rake: 28° 40’
Front brake: Disc, wave-shaped, Nissin, dual-piston caliper
Rear brake: Disc, wave-shaped, Nissin, single-piston caliper
Front tire: 80/100×21 Dunlop MX52FA
Rear tire: 110/90×19 Dunlop MX52
Rims: Excel
Wheelbase: 58.9 in.
Seat height: 37.6 in.
Fuel capacity: 1.6 gal.
Curb weight (claimed): 247 lbs.
MSRP: $8749
